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THE DEACON 



AN ORIGINAL COMEDY DRAMA IN FIVE ACTS 



HORACE C. DALE 



Author's Edition, With the Cast of the Characters, 
Synopsis of Incidents, Time of Representation, De- 
scription OF the Costumes, Scene and Property 
Plots, Sides of Entrance and Exit, Relative 
Positions of the Performers, Explanation 
of the Stage Directions, and all of 
THE Stage Business. 



Copyright, 1892, by Horace C. Dale. All rights reserved. 




NEW YORK 

HAROLD ROORBACH 
' PUBLISHER 



V: \t 



Note. — The acting rights of this play are expressly reserved by the 
author. Threatrical Managers wishing to produce it should apply to the 
author in care of the publisher. Amateur representation may be made 
without such application and without charge. 



THE DEACON. 



CAST OF CHARACTERS. 



Grand Opera House, 

Reading, Pa., 

Dec. ibtJi hnd ijlh, 1886. 

{Mrs. Thornton'' s brother-in-law, '\ 
with a passion for lejnonade \ William "Ward. 
zvith a stick in it, ) 

George Graef, Mrs. Thor7iton's nephew, Geo, W. Endy. 

George Darrah, alias Matt Wheeler, Jas. I. Foos. 

James Reed, a friend of Darrah'' s, H, C. Lewis. 

Pedro, an organ grinder, Sam'l Bechtel. 

Parson Brownlow, W. H. Wilson. 

Pete, Mrs. Thortiton''s servant, H. W. Button. 

Billy, the Deacon'' s boy, Sam'l Wolfskell. 

Mrs. Thornton, Agnes Jameson. 

Helen, her daughter, Claribel Lewis. 

Miss Amelia Fawcett, Mrs. Thornton's maiden sister, . Minnie Riffert. 

Mrs. Darrah, George Darrah's tvife, Ida Radcliffe. 

Nellie, her child, Lizzie Rivers. 

Daisy, Mrs. Thornton'' s servant, Annie C, Fisher. 

Violinist, Policeman, Villagers, etc., by the Company. 

Time of Representation. — Two Hours and a Half. 
Time, the present. Locality, Eastville.Va. 

Note. — Officer, in Act I, Pedro and Parson Brownlow can be doubled 
and played by Reed. Officer in Act IV, by Violinist. 



, IDS'2SID'^ THE DEACON. 



SYNOPSIS OF INCIDENTS. 

Act I. Scene, Eastville Hotel garden. The Robbeiy. — Pete delivers 
an invitation. — "By golly, he's mad already." — Meeting of Graef and 
Wheeler. — " I'm no coward ; I'll either live dow^n the stigma attached to 
it, or die in the attempt." — A promised reward. — The Deacon's arrival. 
— " I'm a gentleman, sir," — " Be sure to put a little stick in it." — The 
Deacon gets hilarious. — Pete imposes upon Billy. — Tlie Deacon is sick, — 
" Oh, my head, my head! " — Triumph No, i. — Curtain. 

Act II, Scene, Mrs. Thornton's sitting-room. Pete promotes himself. 
— " I spruced up to do de honors ob de 'casion," — Miss Amelia is anxious 
about her dear little pet. — " Ze dog or ze money." — " Horrid men, but 
dear doggy woggy." — The Deacon's reception. — The Deacon makes a 
mistake. — " Everything lovely admires me." — " Were you and Bill mar- 
ried by candle light ? " — " Deacon, you are drunk ! " — Miss Amelia pre- 
scribes for the Deacon. — Triumph No. 2. — Curtain. 

Act III. Scene i. A street. Mother and child. — " Mamma, will we 
never reach papa's house ? " — The meeting of husband and wife. — 
" What, you here ! " — Accused of many bitter things. — Left in the 
streets. 

Scene 2. George Graef 's lodgings. Graef meditates. — The finding of 
the diamonds. — Meeting of Graef and Mrs. Darrah. — " Minnie, is this 
you ? " — " Welcome little coz." — The photo. — " Yes, alas, too well ! " 

Scene j. A street. Pete has a dream and persuades Billy to accom- 
pany him on an expedition. 

Scene 4. A wood. The treasure hunters. — " Oh, Lor', I'm dead ! " — 
** Let's go home and get the mules." — The treasure is found. — Caught by 
the spirits. — Tableau. Curtain. 

Act IV. — Scene, Mrs, Thornton's sitting-room. Daisy shows Pete 
what she would do. — Miss Amelia's heart is in a flutter. — " I know I'll 
refuse him." — Pete at his old tricks. — " Then kiss me," — Consternation. 
— Pete continues his tricks. — " 'Tis he, by Jerusalem ! " — The Deacon 
taken by surprise. — More consternation. — " I was insulted by a colored 
woman," — Billy creates some excitement, — " Thank heaven, at last I en- 
fold thee ! " Curtain. 

Act V, Scene, Mrs. Thornton's sitting-room. The Deacon in clover. 
— An interruption. — "Hang the Parson!" — The interrupted marriage 
ceremony- — " That man has a wife living." — " 'Tis false ! " — An attack. 
— Pete to the rescue. — " No, it is a forgery." — The villain foiled. — Arrest 
of George Darrah. — Reinstatement of Graef. — Refusal of a hand. — The 
Deacon is obstinate. — " I can't help it, Minnie, I mean it." — Mrs. Darrah 
and Nellie forgiven. — " Oh, Deacon, don't be so silly." — The Deacon 
made happy. Curtain. 

COSTUMES. 

Mrs. Thornton. — Act II, Light tasteful morning dress, with head 
dress. Act IV, House dress with apron. Act V. Elegant silk dress. 
Slightly gray-mixed wig. 



4 THE DEACON, 

Helen. — Act II. Street dress, with hat, gloves, etc. Act IV. House 
dress and apron. Act V. Bridal dress with train, orange blossoms, veil, 
gloves, etc. 

Miss Amelia. — Act II. Either a very plain or very flashy dress; eye- 
glasses dangling from cord ; regulation spinster curls, gray. Act IV. 
Dress to suit taste. Act V. Elaborate get-up for the occasion. 

Mrs. Darrah. — Acts III and V. Dark dress, bonnet, gloves, etc. 

Nellie. — Acts III and V. Dark dress to suit taste, hat, etc. 

Daisy. — Act I. Tasteful maid's dress and hat. Act II. Same, minus 
hat. Act IV, 1st entrance, same with dusting cap. 2nd, 3rd and 4th 
entrances, same, with apron, minus cap. 

Deacon. — Acts I, II and IV. Old-fashioned-cut pantaloons, dotted 
vest, old-fashioned easy fitting coat; ditto shirt collar; broad brimmed, 
light felt hat ; square watch fob dangling from watch pocket ; square 
glass spectacles ; white bald wig and white throat whiskers. Act V. 
Old-fashioned dark cloth suit ; rose on lapel of coat. 

George Graef, — Acts I and III. Dark cutaway suit. Straw hat. 
Act V. Prince Albert dress coat ; light trousers. Dark dress wig and 
moustache. 

Geo. Darrah.— Acts I and III. Dark cutaway suit. Silk hat. Acts 
II and V. Prince Albert dress coat and pants. Black dress wig and 
moustache throughout. 

Billy. — Acts I, II and III. Long white stockings ; light broad plaid 
pants, cut short below the knees ; pleated shirt waist ; loose fitting linen 
jacket ; low-crowned, narrow-brimmed light hat. Act IV. Same with 
night gown thrown over. Act V. Same, minus coat. Light flaxen 
fright wig. 

Pete. — Act I. Linen suit, straw hat. Act II. Black pants, white 
vest, smoking jacket, low-cut patent leather shoes, white shirt, standing 
collar, white tie and cuffs. Act III. Same as Act I, minus hat. Act 
IV, ist entrance, same. 2nd entrance, see description; ditto, 3rd 
entrance; 4th entrance, same as 1st entrance. Curly negro wig 
throughout. 

Parson Brownlow.— Ministerial suit, coat buttoned up to chin, long 
black curly wig, black side whiskers and moustache. 

Pedro. — Make-up to represent organ-grinder. 

Villagers. Modern costumes, straw hats. 

FiDO. — Red flannel jacket, small straw hat with ribbon streamers. 
Collar with light chain attached. 



PROPERTY PLOT. 

Act I. 

Newspaper. Note for Pete. Green umbrella and pocket-book con- 
taining check for Deacon. White powder for Wheeler. Pitcher of 
lemonade, salver, I empty glass and one filled with soda water. Carpet 
bag. Placard with " Pinch me " on it for Billy. Police star. Violin. 



THE DEACON. 



Act II. 



Books and flowers. Cigar for Pete. Dog dressed to represent monkey. 
Small hand organ for Pedro. Pin for Pete. Purse and money for Mrs. 
Thornton. 

Act III. 

Bank-note and pocket-book for Wheeler. Books and papers. Candle 
lighted. Pitcher of water and glasses. Small pasteboard box for Pete. 
Photo for Mrs, Darrah. Lighted lantern, spade and flask for Pete 
and Billy. Leaves. Small wooden box containing iron pot, covered 
with tan bark to represent mound. Iron chains. Gun loaded. Bass 
drum for thunder. " Flash box " for lightning. 3 sheets for " spooks." 
Red fire. 

Act IV. 

Dust pan and brush, broom and bits of paper. Linen suit, spectacles, 
wig and whiskers, similar to Deacon's, for Pete. Dress and wig, simi- 
lar to Amelia's, for Pete. Flour and dough for Daisy. Bandages for 
Billy. 

Act V. 

Large butcher knife for Pete. Prayer-book for Parson. Small 
pasteboard box. Charm and note for Graef. Handcuffs for Officer. 
Large piece of molasses cake for Billy. 



SCENE PLOT. 

Act I. 

Scene. — Landscape in 4 g. Wicket fence crossing from R. 3 e. to l. 
3 E. with practicable gate c. Set house R. 2 E. with practicable door and 
steps. Table and two chairs down L. c. Rustic settee up L. Green 
baize. Lights up. Time, morning. 

Act II. 

Scene. — Fancy chamber boxed in 3 c, backed with Landscape in 4 G. 
Double door c. in flat, open and hung with curtains. Door L. 2 E. 
Tables down r. and l. c. Sofa up l. Large rocking chair R. near 
2 E. Chairs around sides. Medallion carpet. Lights up. Time, 
morning. 



THE DEACON. 



Act III. 



Scene i. — Street in i g. Practicable door r. c. in flat. 

Scene 2. — Cottage interior in 3 g. Table R. c, with chair. Chairs 
around sides. Door l. 2 e. 

Scene 3. — Street in i g. 

Scene 4. — Woods in 4 g. Mound l. 3 e. Green baize down through- 
out Act. Lights low. Time, night. 

Acts IV and V. 

Scene.— Same as Act II. 



STAGE DIRECTIONS. 

The player is supposed to face the audience. R., means right ; L., 
left; C, centre; R. C, right of centre ; L. C, left of centre ; D. R. C, in 
F., door right of centre in flat or back scene ; D. C, door centre ; I K., 
first entrance ; 2 e., second entrance; r. U. e., right upper entrance ; L. 
U. E., left upper entrance ; i, 2, 3, or 4 g., first, second, third or fourth 
grooves ; UP, toward the back of the stage ; down, toward the audi- 
ence. 



R. R.C. C. L.C. 





THE DEACON 



ACT I. 

Scene: — Garden. EasiviHe Hotel. Set house R. 2 E., with prac- 
ticable door and steps. Wicket fence from R. 4 e. to L. 4 e., 
with practicable gate c. Rustic table and two chairs down 
L. c. Rustic settees up R. c. and l. c. As curtain rises 
Matt Wheeler is discovered seated at table l., with neivspa- 
per in hand, reading. 

Wheeler, [reading] Last evening a bold and daring robbery was 
committed at the residence of Mrs. Thornton. While she was 
serving her guests with refreshments, some one entered her 
dressing-room and removed from her jewel-case diamonds valued 
at a fabulous price, leaving in exchange perfect specimens of 
worthless glass imitations. Suspicion points strongly to George 
Graef, her nephew, as the guilty party. He was seen to enter 
Davis's pawn shop late last night, after the guests had left his 
aunt's residence, and pav/n something. One of the diamonds 
was recovered this morning from Davis's store, but he professed 
ignorance as to the name of the man who left it. Young Graef, 
though he strongly denies committing the theft, was compelled 
to leave his aunt's residence this morning. He has been very 
dissipated of late, drinking and gambling to excess, and it is 
thought that financial embarrassment tempted him to commit 
the crime, [lays paper on table) Poor fellow ! What an inglorious 
ending for v/hat might have been a brilliant career. Gilded 
youth, like the rest of common humanity, when it enters the arena 
against the sparkling cup, witty companions and fascinating 
games of chance, must finally succumb. 

Enter Pete, l. u. e. ; passes through gate. 

Pete, (bowing) Massa Wheeler, missus sends her best 'spects, 
an* quests de delight ob yo'r pleasure to dinner, sah. 



8 THE DEACON. 

Wheeler. Requests the pleasure of my cojnpany, I suppose you 
mean. 

Pete. Yes, sah, I 'spects dat's what shemeant. [aside) One neb- 
ber knows what dese wimmin folks mean by what dey says, no- 
how. 

Wheeler. At what time do you dine? 

Pete, [looking at Wheeler a moment) Sah ? 

Wheeler. At what time do you eat dinner? 

Pete. When de rest git froo. 

Wheeler. What time do the rest usually " get through ? " 

Pete. I dunno. [laughs) Guess when dey gits tired ob eatin'. 

Wheeler. You impertinent black rascal ! What do you mean 
by answering me in that manner? 

Pete, [aside) By golly, he's mad already ! [aloud) Massa 
Wheeler, yo' knows jest as well as I do dat I was not sassin* 
yo'. Yo' axes me at what time I eats, an' I tole yo'. Yo' don't 
s'pose I eats wid de quality folks, does yo' ? 

Wheeler. I'd not be the least bit surprised if they were to al- 
low you. You have never been taught your true position, nor 
how to address a gentleman, 

Pete. I 'spects I knows how to 'dress dem when I meets 'em. 

Wheeler, [angrily) What's that ? 

Pete. Massa Wheeler, it 'pears mighty queer dat yo' an' I can't 
talk sociably for five minnits widout quarrelin'. I'se agwine to 
tell missus dat de next time she wants a note sent to you, dat 
she will hab to seek some oder 'vayance, for I won't take it, 
suah. 

Wheeler. So Mrs. Thornton sent me a note, did she? 

Pete. Ob course she did. 

Wheeler. Where is it ? 

Pete. In my pocket. 

Wheeler. Why did you not give it to me then, instead of at- 
tempting to deliver her message verbally? 

Pete. Kase yo' nebber axed me for it. 

Wheeler. Give it to me this instant, you black imp. (Pete^zV^j 
fiote ; Wheeler hastily reads it) 

Pete, [aside) It's mighty plain what kind ob company he 'soci- 
ates wid. 'Pears to me he's nebber learned how to 'dress gen'- 
men, eider. {j)ointsto self) 

Wheeler, [folding note) Give my compliments to Mrs. Thornton 
and tell her I shall be pleased to accept her kind invitation. 

Pete, (going) Yes, sah. An' I'll gib her a message or two dat 
yo' didn't send her. 

Wheeler, [angrily) What's that ? Off with you ! I shall in- 
form Mrs, Thornton of your insolence as soon as I see her. 



THE DEACON, 9 

Pete. Don't worry yo'self. I'll see her 'fore yo' will, {laughs 
and ^^\Xy gate c. Goes l.) 

Wheeler, [angrily) Confound that piece of ebony ! He's 
enough to irritate a saint. He's been petted by the whole house- 
hold until he has become worse than a spoiled child. Just wait — 
{^Yr£Y. ?'e- appears softly at gateC, and listens) until Helen and I 
are married, and I'm his master. I'll teach that grinning jackan- 
apes his true position. {Vy.T'S. shakes his fist at Wheeler, and rims 
offi^., smiling) Why doesn't Daisy come .-^ I must regain posses- 
sion of that charm and note, otherwise I may have trouble in ac- 
counting for their presence wherever they may be. Hang my 
carelessness ! 

Enter Graef, r. u. e. ; passes through gate and goes down C. 

Wheeler. {adva7ices and playfully slaps Graef on left shoulder) 
Graef, old boy, how are you ? 1 was just thinking about you, and 
regretting that you had got yourself into trouble. 

Graef. To what do you refer ? 

Wheeler, [lightly) To that little affair at your aunt's house last 
night. 

Graef. Then you have heard about it? 

Wheeler. Why, of course. 

Graef. From whom? 

Wheeler. I saw a httle account of it in this morning's issue 
[pointing to paper on table) of the Sun. 

Graef. [surprised) What ! Has it already appeared in print ? 
[picks up pciper afid reads to himself while Wheeler is talking) 

Wheeler. Yes, but you need not mind that. All you have to do 
is to leave town for a few years. Go to some place where you are 
unknown, carve out a name and fortune for yourself, return here 
wealthy, and this trivial offence of yours will be condoned, at 
least, if you are not made a hero of. 

Graef. [excitedly , pointing to passage in article) That's not true. 
I was not "compelled to leave my aunt's residence." I left of my 
own free will. I could not remain there after I knew she 
thought I had committed the deed. 

Wheeler, [soothingly) Of course not ; never mind that article, 
it's not of much importance. No one believes sensational news- 
paper reports, anyhow. 

Graef. But that does me a gross injustice. 

Wheeler, Oh, pshaw, that's nothing. Let it go, and forget all 
about it. What do you intend doing wjth yourself now ? 

Graef. I intend to remain here, turn over a new leaf, make a man 
of myself, and live down this disgrace. 

Wheeler, [coolly) Better not. 



10 THE DEACON. 

Graef. Why? 

Wheeler. Because you will not find it a comfortable existence. 
Persons who know you well, like myself, would pay no attention 
to the charge preferred against you, but 

Graef. Well? 

Wheeler. There are plenty of others who would, and your daily 
hfe would be beset by the harrassing knowledge of being sur- 
rounded by those who doubted your honesty. 

Graef. Let them doubt me if they will. The peace and tranquil- 
ity that innocence imparts to me will more than over-balance that. 

Wheeler. Have it as you will. But if you were to follow the ad- 
vice of a friend, you would do as I suggested, leave this town and 
that instantly. 

Graef. [siispiciously) You appear anxious to have me go. 

Wheeler. Oh, no ; not anxious in the sense you mean. I only 
wish to save you and your friends unnecessary pain. If you are 
short of funds, say so and I will advance you any reasonable sum 
you may require. 

Graef. [coldly] Thank you. I did not come here to beg assist- 
ance. I merely stopped to tell you that under existing circum- 
stances you will have to select some other groomsman ; I cannot 
officiate. 

Wheeler. I'm sorry, but as to selecting another, that's out of the 
question. It's too late. If you remain in town I presume you 
will be present at our marriage. 

Graef. No, that's impossible ! [goijij^] 

Wheeler. It's too bad, old boy ; but keep up your spirits. You 
had better think over my suggestion. 

Graef. [at gale) Once for all, Wheeler, I tell you, I'll never do 
it, I'm no coward. Here in this town I was born and raised, and 
here I'll remain and redeem my character. I'll either live down 
the stigma attached to it, or die in the attempt. 

Exit gale C. , and goes off R. 

Whesler. [wilh power) Curse it! Foiled again! But go he 
must, or I'll ruin him body and soul. I know his weaknesses, and 
I'll play upon them until he accomplishes my purpose, [bitterly) 
Oh, to get even with her father and relations has been my prayer 
for years, [goes to table L., and sits ; picks itp paper and pretends to 
read, but lays it aside as soon as Daisy coines forward) 

Enter Daisy l. u. e. ; opens gate c. and comes down, 

Wheeler. Ah, Daisy, is that you ? 
Daisy. Yes, sir. 

Wheeler. I thought you had forgotten the message I sent you. 
Daisy. No, sir, but I could not come any earlier, and I can only 
stay a moment now. We are very busy at home preparing for the 



THE DEACON. II 

Deacon's arrival. You know Mrs. Thornton expects him to-day. 

Wheeler. Yes, I was aware of it. How does Mrs. Thornton 
stand her loss .'' 

Daisy. Oh, she feels terribly about it, sir. She has forbidden 
Miss Helen, Pete and all of us ever to mention the subject to her. 
Just to think that Mr. George should be guilty of such a thing ! 
But then I don't believe he did do it ! 

Wheeler, {affecting surprise) Don't you? Well, I wish I could 
think so, too. You know he has been very wild of late. 

Daisy. 1 know he has ; but Mr. George would never do a mean 
thing like that. 

Wheeler, [doubtijtgly) I don't know. 

Daisy, [wanniy) Well, I do. But I must be going. What did 
you wish to see me about, sir ? 

Wheeler. Did you find a watch charm or note anywhere in your 
house this morning ? 

Daisy. No, sir. 

Wheeler. I lost them somewhere last night, and I'm pretty sure 
it was in your house. They are of no use to anybody but me. I 
prize the charm solely because it was a present from my mother, 
and the note accompanied it. Now if you find them and return 
them to me as soon as you possibly can, I'll make you a present 
of a ten-dollar bill. 

Daisy. Oh, thank you, sir. I'll try my best to find them. Is 
that all ? I must hurry back home again. 

Wheeler. Yes, I believe so. 

Daisy. Be careful when you see Mrs. Thornton and don't say 
anything to her about her loss or Mr. George. Good morning, 
sir. 

Wheeler. All right, I won't. Good morning. (Exit Daisy, .r-v?/^ 
C. ; goes L. Wheeler walks to door steps i\. 2 e. ; stops and faces 
audience) If her search proves successful, that will be the easiest 
ten dollars she ever earned. But suppose it proves fruitless! 
What then ? I should be placed in a very unpleasant position. 
[thinks) Ah, well, it's time to worry when trouble overtakes one. 
I've often been more sorely pressed than I shall be by this little 
affair, and come out all right ; and I guess I can do it again if the 
emergency arises, [iitrns quickly and starts to enter house). 

Enter Read, r. u. e. 

Read, [at gate outside) Hist, Matt, are you alone? 

Wheeler. Yes. 

Read. Then get ready, for the Deacon is coming. 

Wheeler, [off steps , near gate) Where is he ? 

Read. Coming up the street, [pointing R.) about a square off. 



12 THE DEACON. 



We missed the early stage, so there was no one to meet him I 
directed him here for information as to Mrs. Thornton's residence. 
Wheeler. Did you ride over with him in the stage t 
Read. Yes, there was no one in the stage with us except the 
Deacon's boy, Billy. ^ 

Wheeler, {disappointed) Has he a boy with him? That's bad 
Read. Yes, a dull, ignorant, country lout. But he'll not inter- 
fere with your plans, for I sent him around the square, and some 
ot the boys will be sure to detain him and have some fun with 
him. 

Wheeler. Did you have any trouble in getting the Deacon to trv 
your lemonade ? ^ 

Read, [laughing] Not a particle. He complained about the heat 
and the josthng of the stage making him feel sick and giddy ; so 
I pulled out my flask, told him I was subject to just su?h attacks 
while travelling, and that 1 always went prepared for such emer- 
gences, etc. After 1 assured him that the flask contained nothing 
but weak lemonade and a harmless ingredient togive it its peculiar 
color, he nearly emptied it for me. l '^tr 

tiol!!?^^^^'^* ^"^ ^°" ^"^'"^ ^°'"' lemonade according to my direc- 

ho!frfi; J^h""" m'^ ^'' ^' "°^J°^'y ^^'"^ drunk inside of a half 
houi. then I don t know my man. His tongue was beginning to 

Whl r p '5^' ^''^ '^'^' '^'^^ ^- ^- ^- ^' Wheeler speaks) 
Wheeler. Read, stop a moment. Try and find Walters and 
send him here mside of an hour will you ? vvaiceis. ana 

Read. You forget that Walters has not returned from 

Wheeler. Hush! Confound it, that's true. It takes him an 

If "% t off "^r^'^ '^^•"^- 1 ^^-'- -^•^^' I'll '-t?e 'd to it my" 

^oes d?wn c) I l^H "''"' "^^'""K ^^"^^ ^^^°' ^^ ^^ ^' Wheeler 

unt iTTart'ln if ^^^^ P^'^^^o^s booty remain in it's hiding place 

"t r 4 ' he.-^^^^^''^'^'^•"f 'T' ^^^'' I'll t^l^^ 1^ ^l«"g ^vfth me. 

the Deacon Ho n S'TV' 'iV' '^- '^ '''^^') ^^'''^^ ^ ^'^'^ "^^'^e 
uie ueacon glonously drunk. Then ascertain if it be true tlnf he 

sa a doiu.s and, finally, send him to his sister-in-law's in a 
d.unken condmon. That will be triumph No. i. (.//"r.wj 

lordTtMs'hotd""''""'' «^-^. ./■.«« /^.../) Are you the land- 



THE DEACON. 13 

Wheeler, [pleasantly') Well, no, not exactly. 
Deacon, {blandly) Of course not. Excuse me. .1 knevvyou 
weren't the moment I sot eyes on you. What did I understand you 
to say you were ? 

Wheeler. I'm a gentleman, sir. , t , w 

Deacon. Yes, of course you are. That s just what I thought 
you were I'm a gentleman, too. You wouldn't believe it, would 
you^ [laughs a?td clears throat) I'm a ^^/^«/;7 gentleman. I live 
over in Rockford county. Perhaps you have heard tell of me. I m 
Deacon Thornton. ,. , . 7,7 t^^, 

Wheeler, [in joyful surprise) Indeed! [rises and shakes Dea- 
con's hand warmly) Why, Deacon, I'm delighted to make your 
acquaintance, sir. Deacon smiles and appears pleased) W^^-xd 
of you sir? Why, you are known the state over as being the 
wealthiest and most liberal-hearted gentleman in Rockford county. 
Is it possible I have the honor of shaking hands with so noted a 
gentleman as Deacon Thornton ? 

Deacon, [appears slightly intoxicated) None other I assure you. 
Excuse me, but may I rest a few moments in that chair? [points 
to chair l. of table) I'll feel more sociable like. 

Wheeler Why, certainly, sir. [goes to chair, takes out haftd- 
kerchief a?id dusts it off. Helps seat the DEACON in it) You 
seem to be tired, sir. jr ur 7 ^^\ 

Deacon. Yes. I am, and warm, too. [fans himself with hat) 
You see, I've come over here to attend my niece's wedding, [ai?- 
riiMly) Say. do you know where Mrs. Thornton lives? 

Wheeler. Oh. yes, I'm well acquainted with the family, [takes 

seat R.) ,11^ 

Deacon. That's good. I'll get you to show me her house pres- 
ently. (Wheeler wrt;?z7^5/5 a desire, by half rising, to show him 
immediately) Not now, sit still. I'm not rested yet. You see. ve 
never met Mrs. Thornton. She's my sister-m-law. My brother 
Bill and I had a fall-out when we were young, and never made up 
afterward. She's Bill's widow. Helen's her daughter, my niece. 
She's going to be married day after to-morrow, [the Deacon talks 
rahidlv) Whew, but it's hot ! 

Wheeler. Yes. it is warm, [rising) Excuse me, but I never 
thought of it. Perhaps your long ride in the sun has made you 
thirsfy. too. Let me get you some lemonade. It will refresh 

^"^Deacon. Well, yes, you may, if you will. (Wheeler starts for 
door L. 2 E.) Be sure [with a iviJtk) to put a little stick in it. [riib- 
bincr hands) It gives it /^;z^, you know , ,.. 7,.^^ 

Wheeler Ohf yes, I understand. ( IVinking and nodding head 
Deacon fans himself with hat, smiling aiid seeming well pleased. 
Wheeler, when he reaches steps, pauses, half turning toward 



14 THE DEACON. 

audience, takes a whiie paper parcel from breast pocket and hold- 
ing it tip exclaims, aside) And I'll put something else in that will 
soon make your head swim. Exit through door. 

Enter Daisy hastily, l. u. e. ; passes through gate and goes down C 

Daisy. Oh, Mr. Wheeler, I forgot [petxieves Deacon) Oh! 

Deacon, [rising, appears a little ujisteady. Gazes adiniringly at 
Daisy. Speaks to audience) Blast, my buttons! Ain't she a 
daisy ? 

Daisy, [slightly advancing) Did you speak to me, sir? 

Deacon, [confused) No — yes, — that is — What's your name, my 
pretty miss? 

Daisy. Daisy Dean, sir. 

Deacon. Are you married? 

Daisy. No, sir. 

Deacon. Wouldn't you like to be? 

Daisy, [demurely) I — don't know, sir. 

Deacon, [to self ) I'll think the matter over, [aloud, coaxingly^ 
Won't you come and give me a kiss? 

Daisy, [looks at the Deacon a moment in amazement, then with 
emphasis) No, sir, I won't, [turning quickly zvith toss of head, she 
exits at gate, closes it, looks a mome7it at Deacon, who folloivs her 
retreating form with open-mouthed astonishment, then quickly exits 
L. The Deacon gradually faces round to audience, with the look 
of wonderment still suffusing countenance) 

Deacon. Well, it's plain she was not particularly smitten with me. 
[resumes seat) 

Enter Wheeler, door 2 e. l., with pitcher, one empty glass, and 
another glass filled zvith soda-water. Goes to table and places 
pitcher and empty glass upoii it. 

Wheeler, [filling glass) Here we are, with a drink like the nec- 
tar the gods used to brew, [handing Deacon glass) I can re- 
commend it, for I helped to make it. 

Deacon. You will not object if I take off my coat, will you ! It's 
so warm, [removing coat. Wheeler takes it and hangs it over 
back of his chair. 'Deacon empties glass) 

Wheeler. Certainly not ; make yourself at home. [/Refills 
Deacon's glass, and continues so to do as fast as the Deacon 
empties it. Sits and sips soda-water while talking. Invest this 
scene with as much 7iaturalness arid life as possible) 

Deacon. As I told you, my brother Bill and I never made up 
after our first quarrel, but I'm not going to allow that to stand 
against his widow and daughter. No, sir. [emphatically) I in- 



THE DEACON, I^ 

tend to do the handsome thing by Helen. She's going to marry 
a Mr. Wheeler. Perhaps you know him ? (Wheeler shakes 
head) No ? I'm sorry, for folks say he's a mighty fine gentleman, 
and rich, too. {abruptly') Do you know Amelia? 

■Wheeler. Mrs. Thornton's sister? 

Deacon, [eagerly) Yes, do you know her? 

Wheeler. Oh, yes, very well. 

Deacon, [rubbing hands) Fine woman, isn't she? 

Wheeler. Indeed, she is. I don't know a lady whose opinion I 
respect more. 

Deacon, [slightly hilarious) Oh, she's bright ! 

Wheeler. And so amiable ? 

Deacon, [joyously) Ain't she kind • 

Wheeler. Yes, I think her the perfect pattern of a saint. 

Deacon. Oh, she's angelic, my boy, she's angelic. I'll tell you 
something, if you'll keep it a secret. I'm in love with Amelia. 

Wheeler. I'm not surprised at that, for I can't see how any- 
body can help loving her. 

Deacon. Yes, sir, I'm clean gone ; and I'll marry her, too, see 
if I don't. 

Wheeler. I hope that you may, with all my heart. 

Deacon. Say, I think that you are the nicest fellow I ever met 
— I do, indeed, — and you have got — to be my — groomsman. 
Don't say no — for I'll — not — listen — to — it — (head falls on 
folded arms restijig on table. Maudlin drunk) 

Wheeler. The drug is taking effect, [takes Deacon's coat fvm 
chair, searches pockets, finds large pocket-book, takes check from 
it and exaniines it) Here it is, drawn up and signed, [starts to 
put it in his oivn pocket) No, I won't, for it will soon be mine at 
any rate. [Replaces it ajid doubles up coat and lays it on table 
L. of Deacon) 

Wheeler, [calls) Deacon, Deacon. (Deacon rouses up zvith a 
start, brushes coat off l. upon floor with arm) I must leave you now 
to attend to some business. I will send some one to direct you 
to Mrs. Thornton's, [goes R. near door, Deacon protesting) 

Enter POLICEMAN L. u. e.; passes through gate. Wheeler 
walks down R. motioning Policeman to follow. Stands r. i e. 

Deacon. No, don't go. Don't. All right — I'll — get ready — 
[slowly rises, looks for coat. Does not notice Wheeler and Po- 
liceman) Never had so glorious a time — before — [places hand on 
head) Oh, — my — head! Where's — my — coat? [sees it on floor. 
Bis. of attempting to pick it up: finally falls in a heap be- 
side it. Picks it up and examines it ) Blast it, some — boy — been 
— fooling — with it — turned it inside out. [turns coat) I've — had 



l6 THE DEACON. 

— another — sun — stroke — wish — I — was — home — in — bed — I'm — 
sick — 

Wheeler, [to officer. Talks through scene) If you detain that 
man here for two hours, and then take him to Mrs. Thornton's 
residence, I will make it well worth your trouble. Will you do 
it? (Officer boivs head) Very well ; now go and assist him. 
(Officer goes to Deacon, who has coat turned inside out ajid 
one sleeve on. Officer tries to take it off, but the Deacon pro- 
tests and finally has his own way) A pretty plight for one's 
father-in-law to be in ! Perhaps if he knew me he would recon- 
sider the opinion he expressed about me a moment ago. [smiles) 

Enter BiLLY L. u. E, , with large carpet-bag, half cryiftg. Talks 
as he comes to gate. Pete follows him and beckons L. as though 
urging others to follow. 

Billy. Now leave me alone. Dog-gone your ugly pictures ! I 
didn't do nuffin to amongst you. [leajis on gate. Faces ii. C. 
Pete sneaks up and pinches him. Billy kicks and yells. Cries. 
Officer assisting Deacon to feet, sees Pete) 

Officer. Leave that boy alone, you black rascal, or I'll arrest 
you. 

Pete. Well, make him take in his sign, if he don't want de 
boys to hab any fun wid him. You can't scare me, ole fiddle 
strings, I knows yo'. {Office.k feints to start for him. Fetk pulls 
off hat and runs off L. u. E. ) 

Deacon, {authoritatively) Come here, Billy. [VtWJWi opens gate 
and goes doivn to Deacon, sniffliiig. Deacon looks steadily at 
him a moment) 

Enter three lads and lassies R. u. E., with violinist. Wheeler 
whistles to them softly as they reach gate and beckons for them to 
enter. They come in ; violinist goes up l., the rest R. Wheeler 
goes to them and makes a proposition, then exit door, r. 2 e. 

Deacon. Billy, you're drunk ! Now don't deny it. Aren't you 
ashamed of yourself, for disgracing me ? Now go to that seat 
[pointing up l.) and stay there until I'm ready to leave. (Billy 
goes to settee up L. and sits. Has large placard on back ivith the 
words " Pinch me " printed on it) 

One of the lads goes to the Violinist atid speaks to him, then 
returns R. Violinist starts playing ••/ Wont Go Home Till 
Morning.'' Villagers form set and commence dancing. Officer 
urges Deacon to become his partner. Deacon cojisents. Take 
position. After a few steps the Deacon evinces great gusto. 
Commences singing, seizes one of the lassies, shoves her partner 



THE DEACON. 1 7 

into his position. Laddie becotnes angry, shows fight. Strikes the 
Deacon, who pulls up sleeves and stasis for his assailant. Gen- 
eral confusion. Officer arrests Laddie and starts toward gate 
with him. Deacon comes c, singing and dancing. As curtain 
falls, he suddenly clasps hands to head, exclaimi?ig : 
Deacon. Oh, my head, my head ! 

QUICK DROP. 



ACT 11. 

Scene. — Mrs. Thornton's sitting-room. Pete is seated on rock- 
ing-chair R. , with left leg dangling over arm ; has lighted cigar 
in R. hand and occasionally draws it. Is rocking attd softly 
singing " Gospel Train,'' as curtain rises. 

Enter Daisy l. 2 e. Pete springs quickly to feet and hides cigar 
under coat. 

Pete. Golly, but you scared me. I thought it was missus. [7'e- 
swnes former position, singi7ig a?id sjjtoking) 

Daisy. You can thank your lucky stars that you were mistaken. 
{amazed at Pete's attire') For goodness sake, what are you doing 
rigged out in Mr. George's clothes ? 

Pete. Why, yo' know missus 'spects her brudder-in-law, de 
Deacon, dis mawnin', an' some oder company fur dinner, an' as 
I'se de only male pusson in dis house now, I spruced up to do de 
honors ob de 'casion. 

Daisy. Honors of the occasion ! Why, what do you mean? 

Pete. When people hab parties an' 'ceptions don't dey always 
hab somebody to do de 'ceivin' ? 

Daisy. Of course they do, but you are not such a great goose 
as to suppose Mrs. Thornton will call upon a black booby hke 
you to meet her guests, are you? 

Pete, [rising hastily and assuming a threatening attitude) 
Black booby ? Don't yo' say that again ! [contemptuously) Nig- 
gahs always better than poor white trash. I 'spose yo' think if 
yo' was a man missus would call upon yo', but she'd nebber do dat 
while I was around, suah. [resumes seat) 

Daisy, [soothingly) There, there, Pete, I did not mean to hurt 
your feelings, but you get on your " high horse " so often and 
make yourself so ridiculous that one must say something to save 
you from being thrown and badly injured. 



1 8 THE DEACON. 

Pete. Well, it's none ob yo'r bis'nis if dat hoss breaks my 
neck. 

Daisy. Very well, then, Pete, we will drop the subject. Now, I 
want to ask you something. 

Pete. It am no use, fo' I'll not answer yo'. 

Daisy. Yes, you will, for maybe there'll be some money in it 
for you. 

Pete, {eagerly) What am it ? 

Daisy. Did you find a watch charm or a packet of letters any- 
where in the house this morning? 

Pete, {sulkily) No, I didn't, and mighty little good would it do 
yo' if I did. {gently draws at cigar) 

Daisy. Mr. Wheeler lost a charm and some letters here last 
night, and he told me this morning that he would give me ten dol- 
lars if I found and returned them to him. Now, if you have found 
them I'll give you five dollars for them. 

Pete, {straightenijig up in chair) Let me see if I 'stand yo' 
right. Mr, Wheeler lost a charm an' some letters? 

Daisy. Yes. 

Pete. An' he offered ten dollars to hab dem returned ? 

Daisy. Yes. 

Pete. If I finds dem an' gibs dem to yd I'se to git five dol- 
lars? 

Daisy, Yes. 

Pete. An' if I gibs dem to him I gits ten dollars ! 

Daisy. Oh, no; he did not say that. He only offered to give 
itte the ten dollars. I offered you five for helping me find them. 

Pete, {looks at her a mometit) Oh, yes, I see. I'm sorry I can't 
help yo*. I'm not such a booby as I look. No, I did not find 
dem letters, {pauses a moment) But yo' needn't worry yo'self 
about looking for dem. {settles back in chair and gently draws 
cigar) 

Daisy, {angrily) You mean, horrid, black creature ! I believe 
you have found them and are going to try to get the whole ten 
dollars. Never mind, I'll tell Mr. Wheeler not to give you a red 
cent. 

Pete, {indifferetitly) I don't care if yo' do; yo'llbe none de bet- 
ter off anyhow. 

Miss Amelia, {off L.) Pete, Pete, where are you? (Pete springs 
quickly to feet, and hides cigar tmder coat with left ha7id. Daisy 
crosses to R. of Pete) 

Enter Miss Amelia l. 2 e. 

Miss A. {stops at L. c. ; speaks authoritatively) Pete, where is 
Fido ? 



THE DEACON. I9 

Pete. I 'clar to goodness, Miss 'Melia, I don't know. 

Miss A. You do. You have done something to my dear little pet. 
I know you have, {notices smoke, elevates head, then looks at Pete) 
Who has been smoking in this room ? {removes her gaze from Pete, 
and looks around room overhead. Pete catches Daisy by arm with 
right hand) 

Pete, [aside) Don't tell on me, an' I'll help yo' to find dem let- 
ters, [aloud) I don't know. Miss 'Melia, guess it's de 'roma from 
de gem'men's Herbana's ob last night you smell. I don't notice 
it, do yo', Daisy? [aside) Say, no, quick, or I'm a gone goslin'. 
[quickly changes cigar to right hand, placifig left fingers in mouth, 
and making a wry face. Goes down R.) 

Miss A. I wish, Daisy, you would have the rooms properly aired 
after the horrid men leave. Now, Pete, I want you to go and bring 
Fido to me this instant. 

Pete, [quickly changing from one foot to the other, shakiiig and 
blowing his fingers, and keeping up his facial contortions) I tole yo' 
I didn't know whar he was. 1 ain't seen him since last night. 
[aside) Blame de cigar. 

Miss A. That's a falsehood, and you know it. [notices Pete's 
unrest) Wiiy, what is the matter with you ? 

Pete. I stuck a pin clar froo my finger. 

Miss A. You wicked boy, it serves you right for telling stories. 

Entar Helen, l. 2 e., with Fido. 

Helen. Oh, Auntie, I found Fido down town in this terrible 
plight, being dragged around by a nasty organ grinder. (Miss A. 
spri7tgs forward the instant she sees Fido ; tears the hat, jacket and 
collar off and throws them on floor : gathers him in her arms) 

Miss A. Oh, you dear, abused darling ! What a naughty wicked 
wretch of a man he must have been to treat my poor doggy woggy 
so shamefully ! 

Pete, [aside) Horrid man, but dear doggy woggy ! 

Helen. The horrid wretch at first refused to let me have him, but 
a policeman soon brought him to terms. 

Pete, [aside) I hope dat police will break his neck! [occasion- 
ally shakes and looks at his fingers) 

Helen. He followed me into^he house and insisted upon having 
either the dog or the money he paid for him. 

Pete, [aside, grinning) He needn't tackle dis child fo' de money, 
fer he done spent it. 

Miss A. [angrily) Pete, this is some of your work, and Pll see 
that you are justly punished for it. 

Pete. Miss' Melia, I 'clar 'fore all de world, I nebber harmed a 
hair ob dat dog. I 'spects Neff Jones done sold him, fo' I seed 



20 THE DEACON, 

him only day artcr yesterday pintin' to him an' talkin' to some ob 
de boys, {scuffle heard ^ l. 2 e., and door pitshed violently opeii) 

Enter Pedro, l. 2 e., followed by Mrs. Thornton. 

Pedro, [enraged) I'll have ze dog or ze money ! (Miss A., 
Helen and Daisy scream and retreat up ^., and forjn a cohufin ; 
Miss A. back, with Fido /;/ her arms, Helen next and Daisy 
fro7it. Pete looks scared and slowly edges toward R. i E. ) 

Mrs. Thornton, [sternly] Pete, what is the meaning of this dis- 
graceful scene ? 

Pete. I dunno. (Pedro advances angrily toward Pete, who re- 
treats to extremity of stage) 

Pedro. Zer ze boy zat sold me ze dog. 

Pete. Yo' say dat ag'in an' I'll bust yo'r jaw for yo'. 

Pedro. Ze money — ze two dollars — I gave ze. 

Pete, [advancing) Lebe dis house at once, or I'll break yo'r 
head. ( picks up chair) 

Mrs. T. Put down that chair this instant, Pete. How dare 
you? 

Pete, [reluctajitly drops chair) He mustn't tell lies on me, den, 
or I'll do it, suah. 

Pedro, Ze money, ze money. 

Mrs. T. [taking purse from pocket, hands Pedro money) Now, be 
off with you. (Exit Pedro l. 2 e., muttering to himself indis- 
tinctly. Pete starts quickly across stage but is halted at C. ) 

Mrs. T. Where are you going, Pete ? 

Pete, To show him out. [aside) Wid de toe ob my boot. 

Mrs. T. Never mind, remain where you are. Some of the other 
servants can attend to him. Now, I wish you to know that my 
stock of patience is about exhausted. You have tiied me the past 
few months beyond endurance. If you don't turn over a new leaf 
and behave yourself like other people, I shall be obliged to trans- 
fer you to the care of someone who can manage you. (Helen 
removes hat and gloves and gives them to Daisy who exits l. 
2 E.) 

Pete. I guess I knows to who yo*s 'ferrin' to, but he can't man- 
age me. [aside) An' he better not try, neider. 

Mrs. T. To whom do you think I was referring? 

Pete. Why, to dat Mr, Wheeler. 

Helen, Oh, mamma, I met Mr. Wheeler this morning, and he 
said Pete grossly insulted him in delivering the note you sent him 
just after breakfast. 

Pete. Dat's a whopper! [aside) He'll not git dem letters now. 

Mrs. T. Pete ? 

Pete. Well, it ain't true, so it ain't. 



THE DEACON, 21 

Mrs. T. What did you say to him ? 

Pete. I didn't say nuffin'. 

Mrs. T, What did you do to him, then ? 

Pete. I didn't do nuffin', neider. I'll tell yo' all about it, mis- 
sus. Massa Wheeler sassed me in de fust place, called me a black 
niggah, an' said he' kill me, an' a lot ob bad things. An' den I 
tole him he was no gemman to talk like dat to a poor orphan cul- 
lud boy ; den he flared up an' frothed at de mouf, an' shook his 
fist at me, an' said right dar in public dat when he married Miss 
Helen, dat he'd teach me my true position. 

Miss A I How shocking! 

Mrs. T, [^indignantly) Did he really say that right out in pub- 
lic ? 

Pete. He did dat, sartin'. [aside] He's got hisself in a hornet's 
nest now, fo' suah. Let him blow on me ag'in. 

Helen. Mamma, I don't believe a word of it. 

Pete. Yo' don't eh? Yo' jest ax any ob dose fellers what was 
'round, an' see if dey don't tell yo' de same thing, an' justify me 
in keepin' up de 'spectability ob our family. 

Helen. It's untrue, mamma. Pete made up every word of that 
story. 

Mrs. T. Helen, I cannot believe it possible that Mr. Wheeler 
would be guilty of such indiscretion. 

Pete. Dat'sde way. Nobody b' lie ves a word I say. I, too, is 
gittin' tired ob d<s lack ob confidence. Some of dese morn- 
in's yo' folks will wake up an' find dis child in de promised 
land. 

Helen. Mamma, it's preposterous to entertain for one moment 
Pete's account of Mr. Wheeler's conduct. 

Mrs. T. I shall interrogate Mr. Wheeler privately, and ascertain 
from him the truth of the matter. To be guilty of such baseness, 
I cannot believe it. 

Miss A. It's just hke the horrid men. They are not to be trusted. 
Ugh ! But I detest them. ,) 

Re-enter Daisy, followed by Wheeler. 

Daisy. Mr. Wheeler. (Wheeler bows ; ladies return salutation) 

Pete, [aside) Guess I'd better be leabin' ! 

Wheeler. Mrs. Thornton, it is with the most profound pleasure 
that I accept the invitation you so graciously extended to me this 
morning. 

Pete, [aside) Listen to dat. He's puttin' dem on, now. 

Wheeler. I trust my tardiness has not inconvenienced you. A 
business affair detained me. 



22 THE DEACON. 

Mrs. T. Not in the least. My brother-in-law, whom I desired 
you to meet, has not arrived yet. I cannot imagine what detained 
him. We expected him by the early stage, but he did not come. 
I fear he will disappoint us, for the last stage was due here over 
two hours ago. {Door bell off L. 2 e.) That must be he now. 

Miss A, Oh, dear, the Deacon must not see me in this condition. 
{to Wheeler) Please excuse me, I'll take Fido out and give the 
dear little pet something to eat. He must be nearly famished. 

Helen, {to Wheeler) Please excuse me, too, I have some du- 
ties to attend to. 

Wheeler, {bowmg) Certainly. (Exeunt Miss A. ami Helen, L. 2 
E. Door bell riHirs ) 

Mrs. T. Pete, answer the bell. 

Pete. Yes, missus, {going) 

Mrs. T. {noticing Pete's appearance) Why, what is the mean- 
ing of your being arrayed in that attire ? (Wheeler sjniles) 

Daisy, {laughing) He imagined he was to play the host this morn- 
ing and receive your guests. So he dressed himself up accord- 
ingly. 

Pete. Mind your own bis'nis. Missus wasn't a talkin' to yo'. 

Mrs. T. {ivarningly) Pete ! 

Pete. Well, make Daisy keep quiet. She's always meddlin' wid 
my aftir^irs. Some day I'll make her Avish she'd never been born. 

Mrs. T. {firmly) Just as soon as you answer the bell, go to your 
room, change your clothing, and make yourself tidy. I want you 
to wait on the table at dinner. 

Pete. Wait on de table? (Daisy's /crr^ ivears an irritating 
smile) 

Mrs. T. That's what I said. 

Pete. {i7i expostulating tone) But dat's Daisy's work. 

Mrs. T. No matter whose work it is, I wish you to do it. 

Pete. (/^ Daisy) Dis is yo'r doin's. I'll pour a pitcher ob ice 
water down yo'r back, see if I don't. I'll git eben wid yo'. {aside) 
I won't wait on de table. 

Mrs. T. What's that? 4 

Pete, {quickly) 1 said Daisy M'ouldhab to help. 

Mrs. T. Go instantly and do as I told you. (Exit Pete l. 2 E., 
grumbling; slams door after him. Wheeler, half smiling, crosses 
^. and sits. Mrs. T. sits on sofa. Daisy remains standing Just "K, 
of door "L. 2 E.) I declare I don't know what to do with that boy. 
He's growing worse and worse. Oh, Mr. Wheeler, before I forget 
it, I wish to have a few minutes' talk with you after dinner about 
Pete's conduct toward you this morning. 

Wheeler. Very well, madam, it will give me great pleasure to 
comply with your request. 



THE DEACON. 23 

Mrs. T. I do hope that was brother ringing. Do you know, I 
feel no little anxiety about this meeting. 

Wheeler. I think your daughter told me that you never had met 
your brother-in-law ? 

Mrs. T. No ; William, my late husband, and he were not good 
friends. It was the Deacon's fault. In his younger days he was 
too fond of the wine cup, and when WilHam attempted to warn 
him of its evils, he became angry, ahenated himself from my hus- 
band, and refused from that day on to have any intercourse with 
him whatever. 

Wheeler. I think I have heard it mentioned somewhere that he 
is still a little too fond of the cup at times. 

Mrs. T. Yes, I am sorry to say that the habit contracted in 
youth still clings to him. That is usually the case. But it is only 
on very rare occasions that he imbibes too much. I believe he is 
conscientious and tries to do what is right. I do hope and pray 
that he will not consider this a rare occasion, and may remain 
sober during his stay with us. 

Wheeler. It is to be sincerely hoped so. 

Mrs. T. This visit of his is due entirely to the exertions of my 
sister Amelia. She met him last year while visiting a friend of hers 
residing in his neighborhood. A sort of mutual attachment sprang 
up between them. Where it will end goodness only knows. I fear 
Amelia is very much in love with him. 

Wheeler. Indeed ! 

Mrs. T. Yes, hence my anxiety that our meeting may prove a 
pleasant one. 

Wheeler. The Deacon is not a bachelor, is he ? 

Mrs. T. Oh, no. He lost his wife some thirty years ago. 

Wheeler. Has he no children ? 

Mrs. T. Only one daughter. But never refer to her in his pres- 
ence. He has disowned her. She married against his wishes, and 
a miserable life she has led. Tha Deacon is very self-willed, 
stubborn and self-opinionated, and will hsten to no reason when it 
clashes against his set views. 

Wheeler. But, surely if one were to represent to him that his 
daughter was suffering and needy, he would not refuse to aid her. 

Mrs. T, He would, as sure as you are living. Oh, Mr. Wheeler, 
I know the nobility of your character, how anxious you are to aid 
suffering humanity ; but let me beseech you, as you value Helen's 
peace of mind and mine, never x^io-x to the Deacon's daughter in 
his presence unless you desire to bring on a storm. 

Wheeler. But 

Mrs. T. Hush, I hear him coming. (Mrs. T. and Wheeler 
rise) 



24 THE DEACON, 

Enter Deacon l. 2 e. Has a wearied look ; still intoxicated ; vest 
unbuttoned, coat mussed up a7id full of writikles, cravat under left 
ear ; general condition '^ itsed upy He is followed by V>\\a.\ with 
carpet-bag, Pete expostulating and trying to take it from him. 
Daisy statids near door l. 2 e. ; Mrs. T. tip c. ; Wheeler r. 
2 E. ; Pete goes down l. with Billy ; appears disgusted. 

Deacon, {embracing a?id kissing Daisy) My dear, dear sister. 
I'm rejoiced to meet you. 

Mrs. T. {advancing quickly) Brother, brother, what are you do- 
ing ? That is my servant. 

Deacon, {releasing Daisy) Ah, I made a mistake. My eyesight 
is bad. Excuse me. {e?nb?'aces Mrs. T.) TilHe, I'm rt'c'hghted, 
most supremely blest to enfold — {quickly') to have the pleasure of 
folding — meeting you and caUing you sister. I'm most inexpressi- 
bly happy ! {releases her) Yet as I compare you two, {looking first 
at Daisy and then at Mrs. T.) I can't refrain from saying that I 
think j^«r eye for beauty far superior to my brother's. So she's 
your servant, is she ? {looking at Daisy admiri?igly) She's a 
beauty ! [to Daisy who stands smiling) Come, and let me kiss you 
again. 

Mrs. T. [expostulating) Brother, brother ! {to Daisy) Daisy, 
leave the room. (Exit Daisy l. 2 'e. , left hand over jnouth, giggling) 

Deacon, {in injured tone) Why, what has the poor girl done ? 

Mrs. T. Brother, my servants are not accustomed to have such 
liberties taken with them. Permit me to introduce you to Mr. 
Wheeler, Helen's affianced. 

Deacon, {shaking hands with Wheeler) I'm <^<?lighted, sir, to 
know you will soon have the honor of becoming my nephew. It's 
quite a distinction, sir, and I hope you justly appreciate it. 
(Wheeler bows afid returns to former position). 

Pete, {to audience, pointing to Vi\\A.\ disgustedly) He's got wim- 
min's stockings on. {takes pin from coat, bends it schoolboy fashion, 
balances it on hand, places it on seat of chair, goes to Billy and in 
pantomime asks him to be seated). 

Wheeler, {aside) He does not recognize me. So far my plans 
are working admirably. 

Deacon, {to Mrs. T. ; appeals unsteady, speaks cofifidentially) 
Tillie, Helen's got taste. She has an eye for beauty, {looks at 
Wheeler) He's a fine looking fellow, {looks at Mrs. T.) Excuse 
me, but were you and Bill married by candle light? 

Mrs. T. Why, no ; certainly not. 

Deacon. Did he have all his senses ? 

Mrs. T. [slightly irritated) Of course he did. Why do you 
ask? 

Deacon, [perplexed) I can't understand it. 



THE DEACON, 2$ 

Mrs. T. Can't understand what? 
*■ Deacon, {/ool's at Mrs. T. a mojiieni, then speaks wUh empha- 
sis) How in the name of wonders he came to marry you and pass 
by that sweet, lovely being you sent out of the room. 

Billy, [takes V^i^'^ proffered seat, but instantly sprijigs up) Oh ! 

Mrs. T. Why, what is the matter, Pete ? 

Pete, [examining chair) I dunno. Tse jest tryin' to find out. 
[dicks 2ip pin ; conceals bent part, displaying point) Daisy nebber 
half dusted de chairs. Jest see, she left a pin on dat chair, an' it 
stuck Billy. She nebber does her work right, [lays his hand ott 
Billy's shoulder and consoles him) 

Re-enter Helen, l. 2 e. 

Mrs. T. Brother, this is my daughter Helen. 

Deacon, [looks at Helen) She inherits her beauty from Bill. 
Helen, my dear, I'm rt'dflighted to see you are so pretty. You will 
kiss your old uncle, won't you ? I knew you would. Everything 
lovely admires me. 

Re-enter Miss Amelia, l. 2 e. 

Mrs. T. And here is my sister Amelia. But you need no intro- 
duction to her. 

Deacon. Bless me, no. Miss Amelia, I'm delighted, filled with 
joy unspeakable to behold you again, [advances quickly with arms 
outstretched as though to embrace her. Miss. K. dodges him and 
crosses R., Mrs. T. following her and expostulatifig. The Deacon 
stops suddenly, reels and clasps hand to head) Oh, my head, my 
head ! 

Miss A. [sharply) Deacon, you're drunk. 

Mrs. T. [startled ; expostulatifig) Sister ! 

Miss A. Don't " sister " [imitati7ig Mrs. T.) me ! I can manage 
him. I never saw the man yet I was afraid of. 

Pete, [aside, quickly) Dat's so ; cross-eyed, bow-legged, big, 
little, great or small, dey's all de same to her. He's nebber been 
created. 

Deacon, (l.) Miss Amelia, I protest, I sincerely, most emphat- 
ically protest against the injustice of your charge. I've had another 
sunstroke, [places hand upon brow) My head, my head! I'm — 
sick — deathly — sick ! [advances a step c, U7tsteadily) 

Pete, [aside) Yes, he's got de spirits yell infantum ! 

Miss A. You're beastly drunk. A pretty figure you must have 
cut, staggering along the streets, disgracing our whole family. 
(Deacon in front of sofa, raises his hand deprecatingly) Now, 
don't deny it ; I'm ashamed of you. 



26 THE DEACON. 

Re-enter Daisy l. 2 e. ; she stands near door. 

Miss A. {sharply) Pete ! (Pete irej^ibles and seems frightened) 
Take him to his room, give him a hot foot bath, apply mustard 
plasters to both temples and back of his neck, drench him with 
strong soda water, wrap him in woolen blankets 

Deacon, [sinks to sofa with hopeless expression) Oh, Lord, kill me 
at once, and be done with it. 

Wheeler, [folds arms) Triumph No. 2. 

Deacon on sofa; Mrs. T. up c; Miss A. r. 3 e.; Helen l. 2 e.; 
Daisy l. 2 e. ; Wheeler r. 2 e. ; Pete and Billy l. i e. 

QUICK DROP. 



ACT III. 

Scene A. — A street in 1st Grooves. Practicable door R., in fiat. 
Soft music throughout scene. Time, night. 

Enter Mrs. Darrah and Nellie, l.i e. 

Nellie, [compiainingly) Oh, Mamma, shall we never find papa's 
home ? 

Mrs. D. [sadly) I hope so darling, but you must be patient. 

Nellie. I will, dear mamma. But I think papa was real mean to 
run away and leave us. 

Mrs. D. Hush, my child, that is naughty. You must remember 
that no matter what papa does, you are still hishttle daughter, and 
must love him and be good. 

Nellie. I am good, and I try to love him. But I can never love 
him as I love you. 

Mrs. D. [embraces Nellie) Heaven bless you, my darling. You 
are the only treasure left me. 

Wheeler, [back of scene, near door) You will attend to it, then? 

Mrs. D. [starts as though bewildered) That voice ! [speaks to 
herself. Nellie wa//^5 /(^'l. i e.) 

Wheeler, [ivithin) If you see to it in the morning that will an- 
swer. 

Mrs. D. [listens ; takes a step nearer the door) It is he, I cannot 
be mistaken. 



THE DEACON, 2/ 

Wheeler, {within) All right, I must be off. 

Mrs. D. He is coming out. Nellie, pet, (Nellie runs io her) 
please run down to the corner, [points off R.) and see that no one 
comes tliis way for a few moments. (Exit Nellie, r. i e., Mrs. 
D. foUoivs her until she reaches L. c. behind door in fiat where she 
remains sta7tdi?ig) 

Wheeler, [openins:- door slightly) Good night, {passes out and 
starts toward "L. i e.) 

Mrs. D. {slightly advancing) George ! Husband ! 

Wheeler, {starts; turning quickly, recognises Mrs. D.) What ! 
you here ? 

Mrs. D. {tremulously) Yes, but why that frown? {pleadingly) Oh, 
George, you are not sorry to see me, are you? 

Wheeler, [evasively) What brought you here ? 

Mrs. D. The desire to find you — to be with my husband. 

Wheeler, {coldly) Now that you have found him, what do you 
propose doing ? 

Mrs. D. Staying with him and fulfilHng my wifely vows. 

Wheeler, {vexed ) I thought we had parted never to meet 
again. 

Mrs. D. {astonished) Why, George, what have I done to merit 
this cruelty ? Wiiat is the meaning of this ? {ivith pathos) In 
Heaven's name, speak! (Wheeler hesitates) Tell me, or my 
heart will break, [places hand affectionately upott Wheeler's 
shoulder) 

Wheeler, {removing her hand) Upon your own head be the 
consequences of your rash request, {speaks vehemently) You have 
destroyed every vestige of manliness in my character ; you have 
changed my nature and caused me to become a gambler, a thief 
and a blackleg ; v/ith your artful smile you cajoled me into mar- 
rying you ; taught me to loathe myself, shun society, and spurn my 
true friends 

Mrs. D. George ! 

Wheeler. You drove me from home, by convincing me that I 
did not love you, into scenes of revolting crime and iniquity ; and 
now, after a lapse of over two years— spent in tlie prostitution of 
the nobler traits of my character, at the gaming table, in drinking 
revelries and in fast society — ^just as the sun is beginning to shed 
its rays upon a pathway leading to my reclamation, -^ow—you, who 
have been the bane of my life, cross it, and your fitful shadow 
hisses in my ear, "stop, or I'll destroy you." 

Mrs. D. George, let me beseech you to desist. What demon 
possesses you thus to accuse me, who am innocent of ever having 
injured you by word, thought or deed. Oh, George, I love you 
too dearly to believe that you mean the bitter things you have just 
uttered. 



28 THE DEACON. 

Wheeler. But I do mean them. You alone are responsible for 
the hatred I bear you. 

Mrs. D. Hate me ! I, who sacrificed home, friends, wealth, po- 
sition and parent for you ! ( places hand upon shoulder) Am I 
awake, or is this some frightful hallucination ? I cannot believe it. 
George, husband, father of my child, in mercy's name recall 
your cruel words ! 

Wheeler. They are too true. I cannot. 

Mrs. D. Then you no longer love me ? 

Wheeler. You force me to say it — I do not. 

Mrs. D. Heaven help me then, and protect a discarded wife and 
fatherless child. 

Wheeler. Minnie, the sooner this harassing interview is over the 
better it will be for both. 

Mrs. D. Yes, no doubt of it. I came searching for my lost hus- 
band, loving and trusting in him. I have found him, 'tis true, but 
false to his marriage vows, and doubly false to the common ties of 
humanity. 

Wheeler. Once more, Minnie, let me urge upon you to end this 
scene. What are your plans for the future ? 

Mrs. D. I have none. The God of the fatherless must now direct 
my steps, {^appears stupefied) 

Wheeler. Listen to me then. If you promise to leave this place 
and never place foot in it again, I will deposit with McGrath, the 
banker, a sum of money sufficient to support you and Nellie the 
remainder of your lives. 

Mrs. D. Then this is to be oui last meeting as man and wife 1 

Wheeler, [ill at ease) It is 

Mrs. D. And thus you ignore your marriage vow to " love, honor 
and protect " me ? 

Wheeler. If you are not satisfied, you have the courts to seek 
for redress 

Mrs. D. In what manner? 

Wheeler. By applying for a divorce. 

Mrs. D. A divorce 1 

Wheeler. Yes. 

Mrs. D. Then you are in earnest? 

Wheeler. Was never more so in my life. As a proof of it [takes 
pocket-book from pocket, and quickly selecting a couple of notes, te?i- 
ders them to Mrs. D.) there is sufficient means to obtain shelter for 
yourself this night, and to carry you back to your former home in 
the morning. 

Mrs. D. [haughtily spurns it) Keep your money ! I'll never 
touch a cent of your ill-gotten wealth. For two long years have I 
supported myself and my child without assistance from you, and 
Heaven helping me, I will continue to do so for the future. 



THE DEACON. 29 

Wheeler. Very well, let it be as you please, [replaces money] As 
you have discarded my proffered help and refuse to allow me to 
aid you, it is needless to prolong this interview, [going] 

Mrs, D. [pleadingly] George, is there nothing 1 can do to regain 
your affections ? 

Wheeler. Nothing. 

Mrs. D. You disown me as your wife ! 

Wheeler. Merely wish to sever the bonds connecting us, and 
the sooner you leave this place the better I'll be pleased. 

Mrs. D. Your wishes shall be complied witii. To-morrow will 
find me once more in my humble cottage home awaiting the return 
of my reclaimed husband. 

Wheeler. Thank you. Good by. (Exit Wheeler, hastily, l. i e. 
Mrs. D. does fiat notice his absence] 

Mrs. D. But, oh, what a life of wretchedness, misery and woe 
it will be. [notices that she is alone] George, husband! [goes 
to L. I E., quickly] Gone ! [returns, stops near C, places hand 
upon brow] Left alone in the street, a discarded wife. It is 
more than I can bear. Nellie — my child — come — [falls fainting 
to stage) 

Re-enter Nellie, r. i e., running. 

Nellie. Here I am, mamma. Why, what is the matter? [hteelst 
shakes her, half crying] Wake up ! I believe she's dead. 
Mammal Mamma! speak — it's Nellie. [whistli7ig heard off lu. 
I e.) 

Enter Pete l. i e. Stops 'whistling the instant he sees mother and 

child. 

Pete, [speaks as he advances] Did yc' eber see de like ! Git on 
to dat, will yo* ? Why, what's de trouble, little one? 

Nellie. Oh, please, sir, help me. Some one has killed my 
mamma, [tries to lift ^iYLS. Y) .] 

Pete. Some one kilt yo'r mammy ? Let me see. [stoops; Mrs. D. 
moans and moves slightly] She's not dead. She's — she's — toppled 
over. (Mrs. D. half rises on elbow] 

Mrs. D. Where am I ? 

Pete. Why here, mum. Yo' needn't be afeared. I'll took care 
ob yo'. Does yo' feel better, mum ? 

Mrs. D. How came I here ? 

Pete. 'Deed, mum, I don't know. P'raps de little one can tell 
yo'. 

Mrs. D. Nellie, you here ? 

Nellie. Yes, mamma, you called me and I came. Are you sick, 
dear mamma ? 



gently 
Mamn 



30 THE DEACON. 

Mrs. D. (Jflaces hand upon brow) No — yes — It all comes back 
to me now. Oh, why did I not die — better death than this agony ! 
I suppose I must have fainted, 

Pete. Shall I fetch de doctor fo' yo', mum? 

Mrs. D. No, I feel better already, {atiempis to rise. Pete assists 
her to feet. She reels slightly and places hand to head) Oh, my 
head ! [to Pete) Please take me somewhere, so that I may obtain 
shelter and rest. I am a stranger here. 

Pete. All right, mum. Dar's a fust rate hotel jest around de 
corner, [points qffK. i e.) 

Mrs. D. {quickly) No, no; not there. I desire some quiet lodg- 
ing where my child and myself will not be subjected to the gaze 
of the curious. 

Pete. Well, den, mum, I knows jest de place fo' yo'. It's on one 
ob de back streets. Dis way, it's not very far. (Exit l. i e.) 

Mrs. D. [slowly following) Come, Nellie, dear, we shall soon be 
able to tell our sorrows to One who will comfort us. 

(Exeunt L. I E.) 

Flats are draw7i off disclosing 

Scenes. — A lodging room, plainly ficr7iished. Door L. 2 e. ; table 
R. C, with pitcher and water glasses, candle, books, papers, etc. 
Candle lighted. Graef discovered. 

Graef, [seated, with right arm resting on table) I suppose there 
is nothing left for me to do, but lie low in this hiding place and 
await further developments. It must be hard for a guilty party to 
have his fellow men stigmatize him as a thief — but, oh, what are 
his feelings to those of an innocent man's, particularly when one's 
own flesh and blood prefer the charges. That was a bright idea 
of Pete's, bringing me that note he found, for it will go a great way 
toward establishing my innocence. Now, if he is only fortunate 
enough to obtain those diamonds, and discover who it was that 
pawned one at Davis's shop, my innocence will be proved, and the 
guilty party punished. I never gave Pete credit for the acuteness 
he has displayed in this affair, [knock) That must be he, now. 
Come in. 

Enter Pete, l. 2 E. 

Pete. Massa George, I found dem [displaying box) ]&'=>\. •^\\?iX d^^ 
note saiddey was — in de hollow ob dat big chestnut tree, [hands 
box /"(? George) But does yo' t'ink yo' ought to keep dem diamonds 
here? S'pose de folks finds out yo' is hidin' here, an' gits out a 
search warrant, an' comes here an' finds dem? Why, yo'd be a 
goner, suah. 



THE DEACON. 3 1 

Graef. Never fear, Pete, I'll take good care that they won't be 
discovered. I can never thank you for what you have done for 
me. 

Pete. Nebber mind de t'anks, Massa George. When yo'sclared 
yo' name ob all 'spicion, an' can look honest men in de face hke 
de honest man yo' is — den dat will be t'anks enough for me. 

Graef. Did you find out who it was that pawned that diamond 
at Davis's ? 

Pete. No, sar, but it 'pears to me dat we don't need dat ev'- 
dence. We can make out a cl'ar case widout dat. 

Graef. [imising) Let me see. Helen's marriage takes place day 
after to-morrow, does it not ? 

Pete. Yes, sar. 

Graef. At ten o'clock? 

Pete. Dat's de time a'pinted — if de groom does not come up 
wantin*. 

Graef. Then you come to me here about eight o'clock in the 
morning. I'll try to have all my plans arranged by that time. 
Now, you had better leave me, for your absence may be ob- 
served. 

Pete. By golly, Massa George, if I didn't done gone an' clar 
forgot dat I left a lady an' her little gal standin' out dar on de 
landin'. [points l.) 

Graef. A lady and child out there ? Why, what do they want at 
this time of night ? 

Pete. Shelter an' rest, dat's what dey said. I brought dem. 
Dey am strangers. I found dem on de street, sick an' kinder faint- 
like. I wanted dem to go to de hotel, but dey kicked an' said dey 
didn't want folks starin' at 'em, so I brought 'em here to stay fo' 
de night. De landlady is out, so I tole dem to wait out dar 'till I 
axes yo' if dey might come in here an' stay until she comes 
home. 

Graef. But, Pete, think of the risk I run. 

Pete, [quickly) Oh, yo' needn't be 'fraid ob dem blowin*. Dey 
is quality folks, 

Graef. [laughing] On your recommendation, Pete, they may be 
admitted. 

Pete, [goes to the door and opens it) Come in, mum. 

Enter Mrs. D. ^;/^/ Nellie. 

Pete. Dis am Massa George. (George boivs) 

Mrs. D. Pardon me, sir, for presuming to intrude on your priv- 
acy, but I am not well and could not stand upon ceremony. 
. Graef. Apologies are unnecessary, madam, I am only too happy 
to place my humble room at your disposal. [Places chair c. near 



32 THE DEACON. 

table. Mrs. D. sits. Pete takes Nellie's hand and leads hemp 
\.. to chair. Pete stajids beside her. Qj^ke^y goes to table, pours 
glass of water and returns to Mrs. D., offeringit) Peimit me to of- 
fer you a glass of water, perhaps it will do you good. I am sorry 
I have nothing more invigorating to offer. 

Mrs. D. Thank you, sir, you are very kind, [drinks. In return- 
ing glass looks up into Graef's/^^^, smili7ig faintly) A cup of cold 
water given in charity's name often becomes 

Graef. [interrrnpting her, grasps her by shoulder attd anxiously 
scans herfeatm-es) Minnie, is this you? 

Mrs. D. [startled) Yes, that is my name. But why do you ask? 

Graef. [eagerly) Don't you know me? 

Mrs. D. [coldly, shrinking away from him) No, sir, I think you 
are mistaken in the person. 

Graef. Why, I'm George Graef. 

Mrs. D. [joyously) My cousin — the one who played with me in 
my girlish days? 

Graef. None other, [they shake hands) How happy I am to see 
you. 

Mrs. D. Strange that I did not recognize you at first. 

Graef. Stranger it is that I should be so blind ; for you have 
changed but little since I last saw you — some eight years ago. 

Pete. By jiminy crickitees ! She's seme relation ob ours. Ps so 
glad, [rubs hands gleefully) 

Graef. [crosses to Nellie) And this is your httle daughter? 
Welcome, little coz. [shakes hands ; then retraces steps to ^iRS. D.'s 
side) But tell me, Minnie, what are you doing here ? We had 
beard nothing from you for over three years. (Pete talks silently 
•with Nellie, introducing any comicalities he deems necessary to 
amuse her, so that they do not interfere with the dialogue. He com- 
pletely absorbs Nellie's attention) 

Mrs. D. I came here in search of my husband. 

Graef. Your husband ? 

Mrs. D. Yes. You know father was bitterly opposed to our 
union, and after George found out that he had disinherited me for 
marrying against his wishes, he began to gamble and drink heav- 
ily. Reswore to be revenged upon every member of our family. 
Oh, what days and nights of torture I was obliged to endure ! Fi- 
nally one evening over two years ago he left me without a word of 
warning. 

Graef. Why did you not inform us of his actions ? We surely 
could have been of assistance to you. 

Mrs. D. I preferred bearing my sorrow and disgrace alone ; be- 
sides I needed no assistance, for the dowry settled upon me by my 
father when he closed his doors upon me, was ample to support 
Nellie and myself. 



THE DEACON. 33 

Graef. Still, by our sympathy we might have alleviated your 
sufferings, which must have been intense. 

Mrs. D. They were— words fail to describe them. If I had 
been anything but a loving faithful wife they would not have been 
so hard to bear, {weeps) 

Graef. {consolingly) There, never mind. I hope there are 
brighter days in store for you. Are you aware that your father is 
in town ? 

Mrs. D. {alarmed) No. For mercy's sake don't let him see me. 
It would kill me in my present condition to meet his gaze now, af- 
ter the fulfilment of his prophecy in regard to George. 

Graef. I believe he never met your husband, did he? 

Mrs. D. No, we were married away from home. But he knew 
him by reputation, and warned me against him. None of my rel- 
atives ever met him. Wliere is my father.'* 

Graef, At Auntie Thornton's. He came on to attend Helen's 
wedding. But have no fear of seeing him, you are safe here. 

Mrs. D. {looking around room) But, George, what are you doing 
here ? I thought you made Auntie's house your home. 

Graef. {confused) Yes — I did once — but — Some other time I'll 
tell you my story. It would only distress you to hear it now. Tell 
me more about your husband. Have you never met or heard any- 
thing about him since he left you ? 

Mrs, D. Not until this evening. 

Graef. {surprised) This evening ! Why, what do you mean ? 

Mrs, D. That I both met him and heard him to-night ! 

Graef, Where did you meet him .-* 

Mrs, D, On the street. 

Graef. Impossible! For I know every creature in this town, 

Mrs, D. Perhaps you do not know him by his right name. If you 
know every creature in this town, tell me if you ever {takes photo- 
graph from pocket and hands it to Graef) met a man who resem- 
bled that ? He is my husband. 

Grasf, {takes photo ; starts) What! he your husband .-^ 

Mrs. D. He is. You know him then 1 

Graef. Yes, alas, too well ! 

Pete. Massa George, yo' sartinly will hab to 'scuse me now, fo* 
I must be goin'. I hab a 'pintment wid Billy de Deacon's boy, 
I'se gwine to hab more fun wid him to-night dan a bushel basket 
would hold, {walks toward the door, but stops when George speaks 
to him) 

Graef, Very well ; don't forget 7ny appointment. But wait a 
moment, {walks across to him and hands him photo.) Do you know 
who that is? 

Pet;, {laughs) Yo' jest bet I does. But won't he look different 



34 THE DEACON. 

when he has his head shaved, eh? [with a knowing wink. Exits. 
Graef crosses over to Mrs. D.'s side) 

Mrs. D. What did you mean a moment ago when you said you 
knew my husband " too well? " 

Graef. I cannot tell you now, the story is too long. How long 
do you intend to remain with us? 

Mrs.D. I return home in the morning. 

Graef. [quickfy) No, no; you must not. You 5//<a:// not. 

Mrs. D. [surprised) Why not ? 

Graef. For several reasons. First you must hear my story in 
the morning. Then learn how well your husband is trying to keep 
his oath in regard to injuring your relatives, and, lastly, you may 
be needed as a witness against him. You are safe in this house 
and no one will know of your presence. 

Mrs. D. Why, what has he done? 

Graef. You shall hear in the morning. Sufficient is it for you to 
know he's the blackest-hearted villain that ever went unhung. 
Come, let us find the landlady and see about lodgings for you. 
Come, Nellie. 

Close 171 to 

Scene 3. — Street in ist grooves. 

Enter Pete, l. i e., with lighted lantern, followed by Billy carry- 
ing a spade over left shoulder. 

Pete. Now, if yo's 'fraid, say so, an' Fll git one ob de boys to 
go along. 

Billy. I'm not a bit afeared. But it's so dark. Are you sure 
we'll get any money ? 

Pete. Ob course. Didn't I tell yo' I dreamed last night whar dar 
was more dan free hundred potsfull hid ? 

Billy. Yes, 1 know you did, but do you think the folks who own 
it will let us have it ? 

Pete. We's not gwine to ax 'em. 'Spects dey's all dead, any- 
how. Dar won't be nuffin' to keep us from gittin' it, 'less de 
spirits put in dar 'pearance. 

Billy, [frightened, drops spade) Spirits ! 

Pete. Yes, yo's not afraid ob dem, are yo' ? Fs often played 
wid dem behind de kitchen door [aside) in mince-pie season. 

Billy. Oh, no, I'm not afeared. [trembles) 

Pete. What's yo' shakin' fo' ? 

Billy. I'm not very well. 

Pete. Kind o' weak-like, eh ? 

Billy, [doubtingly) Yaas. 



THE DEACON. 35 

Pete. Want somet'ing to makeyo' strong, does yo' ? [iakes small 
flask from breast pocket, drviks, then passes it to Billy) Try dat, it's 
nervin'. [aside) Den if he sees somet'ing, dar'll be spirits widin 
an' spirits widout. (Billy takes flask and drinks. Pete luatches 
him, and as the fluid disappears, grows t(?ieasy) Hole on, dar. 

Billy, [removing flask a moment, but tightening grasp] That's 
what I'm doing, [hands flask back empty) 

Pete. Feel better, don't yo' ? 

Billy. Yaas. 

Pete. I should t'ink so. [places flask in pocket. Takes np lan- 
tern) Come on, now, we's no time to lose. Exit, r. i e. 

Billy, [picking up spade) I'm ready. Exit, R. i E. 

Flats are dratvn oflf disclosifig 

Scene 4. — Wood in 4th grvoves. 

Enter Pete r. u. e., folloived by Billy. 

Billy. Aren't we most there ? [peal of ilmndci') I'm afearcd it's a 
going to rain. 

Pete. What ob dat? Can't we 'ford to git wet to be independent 
de rest ob our lives ? [looks round ; places lajitern zip c.) 

Billy. Do you know where we are ? 

Pete. Ob course I do. We's mighty nigh de place. 

Billy. You don't say so ! Kin you see it.^ [alaryned] 

Pete, [looking off \.. 2 e.) Yes, I do. [flash of lightnittg, fol- 
lowed by loud clap of tlumder) 

Billy, [jumps and screams) Oh ! 

Pete. What's de matter? Am yo' hurt? 

Billy, [trembling violently and confused) No — yes — Oh, Pete, let's 
go home. 

Pete. Look dar! Dar! What's dat? [points off \.. ^tl. Light- 
ning and loud peal of thunder) 

Billy. Whar? [looks off I.. 3 E. Drops spade, screajus and starts 
rimning off R. 3 e. Pete catches him by coat tails. Billy strug- 
gles viole?ttly to release himself) 

Pete, [coaxingly) Don't leab me, Billy. Nuffin, will hurt yo'. 

Billy, [frantic with fear) Let go of me. Let go of me ! [turns 
on Pete and strikes him several blows rapidly. Pete falls and 
Billy stumbles over him. Practice this scene well) 

Billy. Oh, Lord, I'm dead — dead 

Pete, [springing to feet and assiiming a pugilistic attiiude. A 
thunder clap^ brings Billy to feet, thoroughly fnghtened. Faces 
Pete who advances upon him enraged) What did yo' do dat fo', 
eh? Say ? What did yo' do dat fo' ? [dances in front of Billy) 



36 THE DEACON. 

Billy, {backing) Was that you ? 

Pete. Ob co'rse it were, an' I'se gwine ter lick yo' for it, too. 

Billy. I thought it were a spirit. What did you see ? 

Pete. Why, de mound vvhar de money is hid. Yo's a big cow- 
ard, an' I's a great mind to knocic de stuffin' outob yo'. {^advances 
upon Vi\iA.Y until fists up) 

Billy. Don't Petey, please don't. I didn't hurt you. I'll not get 
scared again. Whar's the money ? [picks up spade) 

Pete, [inollifiicd, pointing to L. 3 E. ) Thar! an' if yo' don't git 
to diggin' fo' it, I'll lam yo' so bad dat de Deacon won't know 
yo' when yo' git home. (Billy starts toward mound, manifesting 
great fear. When near it, a clap of thunder causes him to drop the 
spade again and shake violently: Pete grabs hint by the arm. 
Billy again picks up spade. Ve.tk pushes him forward, talking as 
he does so) 

Pete. We'll be richer dan missus an' all her relations. I jus' bet 
dat dar's more money in dat pile dan all de Deacon's mules kin 
pull. 

Billy, [hanging back) Let's go home and get the mules, then. 

Pete. No, yo' don't. If \\e git mor'n we kin tote, we'll jest 
'phone fer help. So go to work, [thunder and lightning to continue 
throughout scene, at intervals. V>\\a.y throivs earth off l. 3 e.) Dat's 
good. Now, go at it right, shubble fast. (Billy strikes iron pot) 
Now, yo' struck it, suah. Work quick, [the second time spade 
strikes pot, a rattling of chains overhead is heard ) Hurry up, Billy, 
I'll go an' see if anybody is coming. [Viii.UY i^eaches down for pot. 
Pete starts toward R. 3 e. As he reaches c. a gun is fired fro? n r. 
3 e. and Fete, with a groan, falls zvith head toward l. As gun is 
fired chains fall to stage off L. 3 E. 13 illy lifts large iron pot from 
earth as sound of giin is heard. He sees Pete fall and, throwing 
hat off, he picks up^pot with both haiids kicks spade aside, and, half 
bent, starts for R. 3 e. on a run. When near entrance, he is met by 
figure enveloped in a sheet. Screaming with fright lie retraces his 
steps and is met at l. 3 E. by another figure. Starting up C. a third 
figure arrests him. Screaming, he stands a moment bewildered. 
Figures close in arottnd /mn. Rushing to side of Pete, he drops pot 
and falls to knees, clasps hands, eyes roll, fright wig stands on end, 
lips work convulsively as itt prayer. Red lights from both sides.) 



SLOW DROP. 



THE DEACON. 37 

ACT IV. 

Scene. — Mrs. Thornton's .F/Z/m^-rt^t';;/, same as Act II. As airiain 
rises Daisy is discovered c. with broom in left hand, poi7iti?i^ with 
right hand to small pile of bits of paper, dust, etc., on floor. 
Dust pan on floor. Pete down c. 

Daisy, Hold the dust pan ! Don't you hear what I say ? 

Pete, [^indifferently) Ob co'rse, I do. I'se not deaf. 

Daisy, [stamping foot) Then do what I tell you. (Pete nmkes 
grimaces at her) Don't you intend to do it ? 

Pet2. No, do it yo'self. Yo'r not my boss. 

Daisy, [seizing dust pan and brushijig paper, etc., into it vigor- 
ously) It's well Vor you I'm not! 

Pete, [tantalisingly) What does yo' t'ink yo'd do, if yo' were ? 

Daisy, [djopping dust pan) What would I do? I'll show you 1 
[rushes at him with broom tipraised. Drives him around stage, re- 
peatedly striking him on head zuith broom until he reaches C. again) 
Now, I hope you ate satisfied. If I had my way I'd give you a 
sound thrashing and send you to bed to keep poor Billy company. 
[going) Ain't you ashamed of yourself for playing that horrid 
joke upon him last night ! You know you hid that iron pot yourself 
and made him believe that you dreamed there was money buried 
there. Nevermind, sir. Some day you'll meet your match and 
get paid back for all of your badness. Exit, door l. 

Pete, [laughing) I wonder if dat gal thinks she hurt my head. 
I'd butt ag'in a^tone wall wid it all day for fifty cents. Poor 
Billy ! He's not feelin' well to-day. He ran against a tree las' 
night, an' bruised hisself mighty bad. So he stayed abed. But 
he didn't blow on me. He knowed better. Said he fell from a 
tree an' hurted hisself. I's takin' his place an' lookin' after de 
Deacon's interests. De Deacon is takin' a nap. I was to call him 
at 2 sharp. He had a 'ticular 'pintment wid Miss'Melia. It must 
be nigh about dat time now. [starts to go) No, I won't call him, 
eider. I'll let de ole man sleep while he can. [footsteps, L.) Oh, 
Lor', here comes Miss'Melia now. Exit, c. door 

Enter Miss Amelia, l. 2 e. ; goes down C Pete re-appears at 
door c. and listens. 

Miss A. I declare, my heart's all in a flutter. The Deacon has re- 
quested a private interview. I know he is going to propose. I 
feel it; I am sure of it; and, oh, dear, I know I'll refuse him. 
What shall I do ! (Pete shakes finger at her in a knowing way and 
disappears) The dear man has eaten scarcely anything since he 



38 THE DEACON. 

entered this house. He sits at the table pretending to eat. but all 
the while he is looking at me, and wondering if I love him. His 
eyes literally devour me with their lustrous flame of love • 

Enter DAISY, L. 2 E. Miss Amelia is startled. 

Daisy. Miss Amelia, Mrs. Thornton would like to see you a 
moment in the dining-room. 

Miss A. Tell her she must excuse me. I'm engaged for the next 
half hour. 

Daisy. Yes, ma'am, [going] 

Miss A. Daisy. 

Daisy. Ma'am? 

Miss A. {affectedly) How am I looking to-day ? 

Daisy. Most charmingly. 

Miss A. Do you really think so ? 

Daisy. Indeed I do. To see you now, no one would suppose 
you were a day over thirty, {aside) Horrid thing ! She's fifty 
if she's a day. 

Miss A. I fear your are a flatterer. Now, you don't think I'm 
too old to marry, do you ? 

Daisy. Why, no ma'am. Lots of people get married who are 
much older than you. [aside) And big fools they are, too. 

Miss A. Tiiat will do, Daisy. You are are a nice, well-behaved 
girl. So sensible. 

Daisy. Thank you, ma'am, [goittg) 

Miss A. Daisy, stop a moment. If you see the Deacon enter 
this room, please be sure and see that we are not disturbed for the 
next half hour, and I'll make you a present of that handsome silk 
dress of mine I saw you admiring yesterday, [goes R.) 

Daisy. Oh, thank you. [aside) Handsome silk dress! It's as 
ugly as sin and as old as the hills. I wouldn't be seen in such a 
delapidated affair. Ugh! (Exit hastily, L. 2 E.) 

Miss A. I wonder what detains the Deacon, I'm sure it's after 
2 o'clock. I do hope he'll come right to the point, for I know I 
can't stand any long preamble, [fidgety) I do wish he would 
come. Hark ! I hear his footsteps now. [Goes to sofa, sits R.) I'll 
pretend I'm offended because he kept me waiting. Oh, dear, I 
know it's coming ; I feel frightfully nervous. 

Re-enter Pete backivard, dressed i7i Deacon's suit, ivith spectacles 

on. 

Miss A. [glances aroinid as Pete enters) It's he ! [bows head on 
right arm of sofa and remains in that position; Pete advances slowly, 
imitating the Deacon's shuffling gait and clearing of throat. Takes 
seat beside Miss Amelia) 



THE DEACON. 39 

Pete. Amelia, dearest ! ( CougJn ajtd makes wry face. Aside) 
She's skeered ! [aloud] I guess yo' know fo' what 1 wanted to see 
yo' ? [patisd) Yo' love me ! 

Miss A. [^in muffled asionishment) Oh, Deacon, how 

Pete. Now, don't say yo' don't, fo' I know yo' do. {archly') 
I've seen yo' castin' eyes at me on de sly. [aside) What shall I 
say next ! Oh, yes. [clears throat; aloud) Yo' can have me, I's 
willin'. [aside, disgustedly) She don't know how to lub. [aloud) 
Does yo' doubt my love fo' yo' ? Go ask the dear little stars if t 
don't whisper yo'r name to them every mornin' an' at noon. 
( pause) Does yo' still doubt me ? 

Miss A. No — no — only 

Pete, [aside) She's gittin' up courage, [aloud) Only what, dear- 
est? [gradually edges to side of Miss A.) Don't be afraid to speak, 
I'll not hurt yo'. Don't yo' lub me just a little wee bit? 

Miss A. No — yes — I mean that 

Pete, [tenderly) Yo' mean that yo' will marry me if I'll wait a 
little while ! Oh, but you are a darhng ! [places arm around ]s\iss 
A.'s shoulder and attempts to I'aise her head. M iss A. makes faint 
resistance) Look up. Birdie, and give me one little kiss to seal the 
bargain. Just one. 

Miss A. You are irresistible ! [gently inclines head toward Pete 
with face averted. Guslmigly) Do you really and truly love me ? 

Pete. With all my heart ! 

Miss A. Then kiss me. [turning qiticlcly as in act of kissing, sees 
Pete, but does not recognize him. Falling in corner of sofa, she 
screams. Pete jumps tip and quickly exits D. c. ) Help ! help ! 
murder — help ! 

Re-enter Daisy, l. 2 e. ; she has commo7i aprvn on, sleeves rolled 
up, hands covered with dough and arms bearing flour marks ; 
folloived by Mrs. Thornton and Helen, both wearing common 
aprons. 

Daisy. For goodness' sake, what is the matter? 

Miss A. [in hysterics) Oh — oh — oh — I've been frightened nearly 
to death. Oh, dear, oh ! 

Mrs. T. By v/hom ? 

Miss A. A tall colored man. He sat down on the sofa beside 
me. Oh, dear, I shall die, I know I shall. (Mrs. T. and Helen 
approach and try to quiet her. VihlSY goes to D, c. and peers be- 
hind curtain) 

Miss A. He was dressed in one of the Deacon's suits. 

Mrs. T. In my brother's clothes? Impossible ! 

Miss A. He was, I tell you. He escaped out of the balcony 
window, [points to D. c.) 



40 THE DEACON. 

Daisy. Oh I [screaming, runs 1o group. All appear frightened^ 
and scream^ 

Helen. Did you see him ? 

Daisy. No — but — I thought I did. 

Helen. Auntie, I beheve you fell asleep and had a bad dream. 

Miss A. Asleep ! I've not closed my eyes this blessed day. I 
saw him as plainly as I see you. The ugly wretch ! Oh, oh ! 

Mrs. T. Daisy, go and find Pete and send him for a pohceman. 
This matter must be investigated. 

Daisy. Yes, ma'am. (Exit, L. 2 E.) 

Helen, [going to door, L., listening') I think I hear uncle moving 
about his room. He'll soon be down and will help us search the 
house. 

Miss A. Oh, for goodness' sake, help nie to get away before he 
comes. (Mrs. T. rt«rt^ Helen assist her to rise, and start luith her 
toward I.. 2 E.) 

Miss A. No, no, not that way. I might meet him. Take me 
out along the balcony way. I'd rather meet that horrid colored 
man again than the Deacon in my present condition. Oh, dear, 
it was a terrible shock ! Terrible ! (Exeunt, d, c.) 

Re-enter Pete, l. 2 E., disguised as Miss A. ; wears a similar wig 

etc. 

Pete, (c, imitating Miss A.'s manner^ I declar', my heart's 
flutterin' like all creation. I have a 'pintment wid de Deacon. I 
knows he's gwine to ax me to marry him. Oh, dear, I shall faint! 
I knows I shall, but I can't refuse him. [takes seat on sofa) Hark ! 
I hear footsteps. 'Tis he, by Jerusalem ! I'll 'tend I'm mad wid 
him for not comin' sooner, [tows head on L. arm of sofa, conceals 
feet tmder dress, pulls curls over side of face, and hides hands under 
chin) 

Enter Deacon, l. 2 e., smiling blandly. 

Deacon. How lovely she appears. Still waiting for me. While 
I have been sleeping, she, like the grand noble creature that she 
is, has been patiently waiting my coming, no doubt considering 
each moment an hour. What a beautiful picture the sentiment 
of love in woman presents ! [goes to sofa, sits R.) Have I kept you 
waiting long, my darling? It" was not my fault. Pete forgot to 
call me. You'll forgive me, my love, won't you ? [edging nearer) 

Pete, [in m^iffled tone of voice) I — I — don't know. 

Deacon. Oh, yes, you will. I know you will. Amelia, — you 
willlet me call you by your beautiful first name, won't you? — ever 
since my wife died, I've been looking for anotherangel totake her 



THE DEACON. 4 1 

place. I have at last found her. Can't you guess who it is ? 
[pause) I mean you. Oh, Amelia, I love you — love you dearly, 
tenderly, most devotedly. Do you doubt me ? 

Pete. No — no — only 

Deacon. Only what, my love ? [draws close to Ve.tk' s side) Don't 
be afraid to tell me. Hereafter I expect to help^ you bear all your 
trials and sorrows. What a blissful abode of love our home will 
be. [tenderly) You surely love me a little, don't you t 

Pete. No, — yes — I mean that 

Deacon, [placing arm around Pete) Oh, you precious darling ! 
You mean that in time you may be able to love and marry me. I'm 
the happiest man on earth, [tries to pull V^i:y. gently toward him. 
Pete resists fai^itly) Nothing is now wanting to make my earthly 
lota foretaste of the bliss of Paradise, but one little kiss from your 
sweet lips, and the coveted honor of leading you to the altar. You 
won't refuse me the boon of one kiss, will you, dear? [attempts to 
raise Ptlte's head) 

Pete, [yielding) Yo' are puffec'ly irresistible ! [7'ests head upon 
the Deacon's shoulder ; keeps face well averted) Do yo' really 
and truly love me ? 

Deacon, [warmly) As truly as the sun shines. 

Pete. Then kiss me. [quickly turning, he tlwows both arms around 
the Deacon's neck arid gives him a loud kiss. Spritigirig to feet, he 
exits quickly D. C) 

Dv^acon. [rises bewildered) Ah — oh — what — what's this? The 
huzzy! [takes handkerchief from breast pocket ami jvipes lips) 
Ugh ! The infern— [calls loudly) Pete ! Pete ! Daisy ! Pete ! 
Where in the mischief are they ? Why don't they come ! Pete ! 
Pete 1 Pete ! [walks excitedly 11. ) 

Re-snter Mrs. T., Helen, Miss A., aiid Daisy, l. 2 e. 

Mrs. T. Why, brother, what is the matter? Are you going 
mad? 

Deacon, [angrily) No— yes— I am mad. Madam, Avhat do you 
mean by allowing your colored cook the freedom of this house? 

Mrs. T. [in amazement) Why, brother, I have no colored cook. 

Deacon. You have ! Now, don't say again you haven't, for I 
know better. If she ain't your cook, she fills some position in 
your house, which is all the same. 

Helen. Why, uncle, there's not a colored woman in this house. 

Miss A. Deacon, I fear you have been indulging again, and 
you promised me so faithfully never to touch another drop. Oh, 
dear, the depravity of mankind is distresshig ! 

Deacon. Heaven preserve me ! Hold your tongues, every one 



42 THE DEACON. 

of you. Don't you suppose I know a colored woman when I 
see one ! I've been most infern — grossly insulted by one. 

Mrs, T. Where ? 

Deacon. Why, in this room. 

Mrs. T. ] 

Helen, y In this room ? 

Miss A. ) 

Deacon. Yes, in this room. Upon that very sofa, {pointing to sofa) 
Only a moment ago there was a colored woman sitting there 
arrayed in one of Miss Ameha's dresses. 

Miss A. In one of my dresses! 

Deacon. Yes, and she looked just like you. 

Miss A. [in horror, raises her hands) Like me ! 

Deacon. Like you, until she turned her face toward me. She 
escaped out that window, [pointing to D. C.) 

Miss A. [to Mrs. T. ) Sister, I believe this house is haunted! 

Mrs. T. There certainly is something going on that I cannot 
understand, [to Daisy) Did you send Pete for that pohceman? 

Daisy. No, ma'am, I could not find him. 

Helen. That's just like him. He's never around when he's 
wanted. 

Miss A. Sister, something must be done, or I'll not sleep in this 
house to-night. 

Mrs. T. [to Daisy) Go and see if Pete is anywhere around now, 
and if you find him send him for an officer at once. 

Daisy. Yes, ma'am. (Exit, L. 2 E.) 

Mrs. T. Brother, are you sure you saw a colored woman ? 

Deacon. Didn't I tell you I did? Do you think I'm blind? Con- 
found it ! [wipes lips with handkerchief) I saw her too plainly for 
comfort. I wish I had her now. I'd wring her neck off. Blast 
her buttons ! 

Miss A. Deacon, I fear you are forgetting yourself. 

Mrs. T. Brother! Brother! 

Deacon. That's nothing, 1 feel like saying 

Miss A. [quickly) Don't ! Please don't. Deacon. 

Re-enter Pete hurriedly, l. 2 e. ; appears short of breath. Fans 
himself with hand. 

Pete. What's de mattah ? [to Deacon) I heard yo* callin'. I 
was out in de orchard pickin' some apples an' I run myself out 
of bref. I t' ought de house was a-fire. 

Deacon. Why didn't you call me when I told you to? 

Pete. [ did. I called yo' ag'in an' ag'in, an' yo' said, all right. 
1 t'ought yo' wus awake. 'Spect yo' must agone to sleep ag'in. 

(Mrs. T., and Helen cross R.) 



THE DEACON, 43 

Mrs. T. Pete, did you see a colored man or woman pass out 
of that window this afternoon ? 

Pete, [in asfo/iis/wient) Why, no, missus. Dar was none 
passed out, fo' I were jist over dar ^pointing) in de orchard, right 
opposite de window, an' nobody could pass out widout 'tractin' 
my 'tention. (Pete goes to D. c. and looks out. The Deacon 
crosses L. near Miss A. ) 

Mrs. T. It's very strange. I can't account for your vision, 
brother, upon any other grounds, than that you were dreaming. 

Deacon, [afigrity] Then you think 1 didn't see a colored woman 
at all 

Miss A. And that my eye-sight failed me, too 

Deacon. And I'm telling a falsehood 

Miss A. And that I'm not to be beheved? Oh, sister, sister ! 
{clasps hands. Noise heard off i.., as of some ofie crying. Pete 
crosses up i.. C.) 

Re-enter Daisy, hurriedly, L. C. 

Daisy, {angrily^ Pete, you horrid wretch, what did you mean 
by putting that cat in poor Billy's room. You know how mortally 
afraid he is of them. 

Pete. I didn't put no cat in his room. 

Daisy. You did, for he saw you open his door, and he's scared 
almost out of his wits. 

The curtains at D. c. are pulled violently aside, and in rushes 

Billy. 

Billy, {screaming with fright) Take him away ! Take him 
away ! [goes down c. Has left eye covered with cloth, left arm in 
slino, black patch on ri^ht cheek and nose sivollen. Has on night- 
shirt and loner white stockings. All the ladies scream. Mrs. T. 
springs to siipport Helen in her arms ; Miss hM^iAK fmits in 
the Deacon's arms) 

Mrs. Thornton and Helen r.; Deacon and Miss Amelia l.; 
Daisy and Pete tip c. 

Deacon. Thank Heaven ! At last I enfold thee ! 
SLOW DROP. 



44 THE DEACON. 

ACT V. 



Scene. — Mrs. Thornton's sitting-room, same as Act IV. Miss 
Amelia seated on sofa, the Deacon beside her ; Pete looks in 
upon them from behind curtain ^., grinning. 

Deacon. In a short time, my love, Helen will be the happy bride 
of Mr. Wheeler. Oh, that I could persuade you to become my 
blushing bride at the same time, {places arm aroimd her, and 
looks at her fondly^ 

Miss A. {half -playfully) I declare, Deacon, the more one sees of 
you the more impressive your silliness becomes. The bare idea 
of a man of your age desiring to marry, is simply ridiculous. 

Deacon. Perhaps it is, my darhng, but let me enjoy the happi- 
ness of living over my youth again. I feel fifty years younger 
this morning than I did last night before I obtained you consent 
to bless my declining years with your sweet smile. But when we 
come to consider our age, and the subject of marriage in connec- 
tion with it, it certainly does appear as though both of us were silly 
geese. 

Miss A. {amazed and offended) Sir! 

Deacon, {confused) I beg your pardon. I did not mean to refer 
to your age. I — 1 — meant my own. That was what I was think- 
ing about, {tenderly) As I look at you, you appear as fresh and 
bright as a lass of sixteen. 

Miss A. {reassured, gushingly) Oh, Deacon, I can't believe you 
mean that. 

Dsacon. I do though. 

Pete, {at T). c.) Look out, de parson am coming! (Miss A. and 
Deacon start, then separ-ate. Pete otters and goes R. At same 
instant 

Ei-t3r Parson Brownlow, l. 2 e. 

Deacon, {rises, faces Pete, em^aged) How dare you enter my 
— our presence unannounced ! What do I care if the parson has 
come! (Miss A., catching sight of Parson V>.,.iuho stands l. 
amazed, ivith uplifted hands, tugs at the Deacon's sleeve to attract 
his attention) If a dozen of them come, are they any better than any 
body else ? If ever you enter my presence again so abruptly, old 
as I am, I'll cane you within an inch of your life. 

Miss A. Deacon, Deacon, do be still. You are disgracing your- 
self and mortifying me. Just look ! There stands Parson Brown- 
low listening to every word you say. 

Deacon. Hang the Parson ! I'll — {sees the parson) I beg your 



THE DEACON. 45 

pardon, sir, I was not aware of your presence. You must excuse 
my unseemly passion. I have been greatly irritated by that 
black rascal standing there, [poinfing- to Pete) 

Parson B. What, Pete in trouble again ! (/^ Pete) What have 
you been doing qow ? 

Pete, [in injured hme) I weren't doin' nuffin'. De Deacon dar 
was a-spoonin', [the Deacon /r^ze;;?5 a7id starts f 07^ Vety., but is 
detained by Miss A. catching him by the arm. Pete starts to 
run up R. ) an' cause I warned him of your approach to keep yo' 
from catchin' ob him, he got mad. 

Miss A. There, Pete, that's enough, [to Parson B.) It was a 
little misunderstanding, that is all. (Deacon manifests a desire to 
reach Pete. To Deacon) Deacon, do be still. I think I hear the 
bride and groom coming. 

Enter Mrs. TviO^^TO^is and guests, if any, R. 2 E. They take places. 
Mrs. T. down 1^., guests tcp l. and k. ; Miss Amelia, Deacon 
and Parson ctvss r. ; Parson stands 11. of Miss A.; Pete goes 
tip R. near curtain. Orchestra flays a wedding ?na?'ch. After a 
few bars enter Helen d. c, arrayed in bridal robes, leaning on 
the left arm of Wheeler. Take positions directly in front of l. 
2 E. door. Pete makes a low salaam as they enter, but shakes 
fist at Wheeler as he crosses to position. Parson takes book 
from pocket, steps in front of contracting parties, and proceeds 
with ceremony as music ceases. Pete peeps out d. c. 

Parson, [reading from book) We are gathered together here 
in the presence of this company to join together this man and 
woman in the holy bonds of matrimony. If any man can show 
just cause why they may not lawfully be joined together, let him 
now speak, or else hereafter forever hold his peace— [during- the 
delivery of this, Pete manifests uneasiness and occasionally glances 
around at D. c. When Graef enter's he displays joy by rubbitig 
hands gleefully) 

Enter Graef d. C. ; goes down C. Speaks as he co?nes fvwat'd. 

Graef. One moment, Parson. I forbid this marriage. 

Wheeler. On what grounds? 

Graef. Aunt — Helen — you are being imposed upon ! 

Wheeler. [ang7'ily) What is the meaning of this interference, 



SU" 



Graef. [to Helen) That man has a wife living. 

Wheeler. 'Tis false ! As false as he who makes the accusation. 
[to Helen, ans^rily) You will not allow yourself to be influenced 
by the base charge of a common thief, will you ? 

Graef. Helen, I ask no one to beheve my simple word. I have 



4.6 THE DEACON. 

proof amply sufficient to convince you of the truthfulness of my 
assertion, [to Wheeler) Do you deny my charge? 

Wheeler. I do, and challenge you to produce your proof. 

Enter Mrs. Darrah, d. C. 

Graef. [to Wheeler) It is here. Do you know this lady ? 

Wheeler, [^surprised ) Minnie ! 

Graef. You know her then ? 

Wheeler. You here ? 

Mrs. T. [to Graef) Who is that woman ? 

Graef. Uncle's daughter, [the Deacon's back is iiuiied toward 
Mrs. D.) and your would-be son-in-law's wife. 

Mrs T. [to Wheeler) Is this true ? 

Wheeler. I cannot deny it. [bows head. Mrs. T. catches Helen 
by arm and supports her to sofa as Mrs. D. speaks. Parson B. 
closes book and crosses to R. of Miss Amelia) 

Mrs. D. Alas, it is too true ! But I remain such only until the 
courts sever our relation, [goes to sofa and helps comfvt Helen, 
after casting a longing glance at the Deacon who still stands 
with back toward her) 

Wheeler, [hisses through clenched teeth, to Graef) So I have 
you to thank for this humiliation, have I ? 

Graef. Yes, and it is a pleasure I have been anticipating for 
the past two days, 

Wheeler. Then you prepared this plan for my exposure? 

Graef. I did. 

Wheeler. Have you the effrontery to tell me to my teeth that 
you deliberately prepared my downfall ? 

Graef. [coolly) I have. 

Wheeler. Then, you miserable cur, I'll be revenged, [rushes 
at Graef who retreats a little. Pete draws huge butcher knife 
and runs to Graff's side) 

Pete. Pull on him, Massa George, pull on him, I'se wid yo' ! 
[holding knife aloft dr-aniatically. At sight of knife MisS Amelia 
has slight attack of hysterics, throws both arms around the Dea- 
con's neck and chokes him. The Deacon struggles to release 
himself Parson B.. stoops behind Miss A. amt tries to make 
her dress shield him. Wheeler stops suddenly) 

Enter Officer, l. 2 e.; approaches Wheeler j^t/"/^. 

Graef. He's not worth the effort, Pete. Officer, arrest that 
man. 

Officer, (j-fz^-w^ Wheeler /nw/ behind) George Darrah, I ar- 
you for the crime of theft. (Wheeler struggles. Graef helps 



THE DEACON. 47 

Officer handcuff him. The Deacon imloosens Miss A.'s ar?ns, 
when her head falls ypon his right shoulder. The Deacon sup- 
ports her drooping fojin by placing his right arm around her 
waist. Mrs. T. rises) 

Wheeler. What is the meaning of this indignity ? 

Graef. You will soon know, {^io Mrs. T. ) Aunt, there stands 
the George Graef who stole your diamonds ! 

Pete. Say, Massa George, what do yo' think his picture will 
look like now, arter it's took, eh? (Graef smiles. Pete crosses 
to Parson B. and makes feint to stab him ivith Jz7iife. Parson 
sinks almost to knees, manifesting great fear. Aside) He kin 
teach others how to die bravely, but he skeers when deff comes 
nigh him. 

Mrs. T. [to Graef) I don't understand you. 

Graef. George Darrah, there, known to you as Mr. Wheeler, 
is the thief you thought was myself, i^to Wheeler) Do you re- 
quire /r*?^?/" to that effect? 

Wheeler. Yes, if you possess it. 

Graef. [taking zvatch charm from pocket) Do you recognize 
that charm ? 

Wheeler. No, I never saw it before. 

Pete. Dat's a whopper ! 

Graef. [taking paper ^"0771 pocket) Perhaps you will deny also 
ever having seen this note with your name attached to it. [folds 
note so that signatuj'c only is seen, and shows it to Wheeler) 
Is that your signature? 

Wheeler. No, it's a forgery. 

Pete. By crickitees ! I'se not a circumstance to dat feller in 
lyin'. 

Graef. Aunt, this charm and note were found by Pete just out- 
side of your dressing-room door the morning after the robbery. 
He, thinking they might lead to a clue, brought them to me. From 
the contents of this note I learned who committed the theft and 
where the diamonds were secreted, 

Wheeler. Will you let me see that note ? 

Graef. With pleasure, [tvalks to Wheeler, unfolds ?iote and 
holds it i(p for him to read, talking as he does so) Pete visited 
the place where the diamonds were hidden, and brought them to 
me. I will give them to you in a moment. Are you through ? [to 
Wheeler. Takes sjnall package from pocket and hajids it to 
Mrs. T.) There they are. 

Wheeler. Mrs. Thornton, that note is supposed to be written by 
me. In it I am made to state the hour I was to commit the rob- 
bery, and the place where I would hide the diamonds, so that my 
confederate could find them. Now, do you think if /planned the 
affair and had an accomplice, I would be likely to write him a 



48 THE DEACON, 

tell-tale note, and allow it to fall into an interested party's bands 
to be used against me ? 

Pete. Did yo' eber hear de like ? 

Mrs. T. Well, hardly, but how do you account for the note ex- 
plaining where the diamonds were hidden ? 

Wheeler. That's plain enougii to me. There stands the man [look' 
ing at Graef) who took the diamonds ; there stands the man who 
returned 'Oi\t\x\, and //^^;-^ is the man who wrote that note and trumped 
up this charge to shield himself at my expense. 

Graef. You infamous scoundrel ! [advances npon Wheeler) 

Pete, [excitedly] Pin him, Massa George. I'd nebber stand dat, 
suah ! 

Mrs. T. [looks reproach/idly at Graef) Can it be possible ! 

Graef. Aunt, for heaven's sake, believe not that black-hearted 
villain. In one moment I'll convince you of his guilt beyond 
question. This morning, Davis the pawnbroker, came to my room 
of his own free will, and told me that that man [pointing to 
Wheeler) was the one v.'ho left one of your jewels at his shop, 
and that he was to pay Davis three hundred dollars to keep that 
fact a secret. Is that sufficient for you ? 

Pete, [aside] Ob his own free will, did he ? I guess I skeered 
ole Davis nigh about to deff. I tole him we knew who gave 
him dat diamond an' I was on my way to git an officer to 'rest 
him as a 'complice. 

Wheeler. The lying scoundrel ! I'll get even with him for that, 
2ind \v\\.\\ you [to Graef) and you, [to Mrs. T. ) and with all of 
you. 

Mrs. T. Off with you. I no longer doubt your guilt. Officer, 
remove him instantly from our presence, (exeunt Officer and 
Wheeler, l. 2 e. Mrs. T. goes to Graef) George, can you 
ever forgive me for my unjust suspicions? I will do anything in 
my power to make retribution to you for your sufferings. 

Graef. Then extend to Minnie, there, your niece, a wel- 
come worthy of her. (Mrs. T. goes to sofa, grasps Mrs. D.'s 
hand, takes seat beside her and engages her in conversation. 
Helen rises and appjvaches Graef) Innocence requires no ret- 
ribution from those who suspect her. 

Helen. Cousin, no one can ever be more grateful to you than I 
am for the life of misery you have saved me from. What could 
have been that fiend' s motive in trying to bring disgrace upon us 
all, baffles my comprehension. 

Graef. His desire to be revenged upon Minnie and all her rela- 
atives, for the fancied insult he received in uncle's disinheriting 
her for marrying contrary to his wishes, has been the motive that 
actuated him. (Parson, Miss Amelia and Deacon cross to 
Graef) 



THE DEACON. 49 

Parson, {shaking Graef's hand) Bless you, my son, bless 
you. 

Miss A. George, you are a son worthy of your mother. I al- 
ways said you would yet make a man of yourself 

Graef. {interrupting) There, there ! you are all showering your 
thanks upon me and forgetting Pete, to whom most of the glory 
belongs. 

Pete. Yo' just bet it does. I'se done my share ob keepin' up 
de 'spectability ob de family. 

Helen. Yes, Pete, you have, and we are all very grateful to you 
for it. 

Pete, [botuing] T'ank yo'. 

Deacon, {advancing attd extending hand) George, my boy, you 
will at least let me extend to you my hearty congratulations. You 
have acted nobly. 

Graef. {refusing hand) Excuse me uncle, but 

Deacon. Why! why ! what's the matter? Refuse to shake hands 
with me ? Why — ah — I can't understand it. 

Graef. Pardon me, uncle for my plainness of speech. But I'll 
never shake hands with a fatlier who has disowned his motherless 
child, until he forgives her and acknowledges her as his own flesh 
and blood. 

Pete, {aside) Dat's de noblest t'ing he ever said or done. 

Minnie, {rising) George ! 

Graef. I can't help it, Minnie. I mean it. {the Deacon turns 
back) 

Pete. Dat's right, Massa George, make him toe de scratch. 

Enter Nellie, d. c. 

Nellie. Where's mamma? Oh, there you are! {runs to her) 

Graef. {approaches Deacon ; /ays hajtd upwn his left shoulder) 
Uncle, your daughter and child await your forgiveness. 

Deacon, {doggedly) I have no daughter ! 

Pete. Miss 'Melia, please come here a minnit. (Miss A. goes to 
Pete, who is down R.) Yo' tackle de Deacon, he'll refuse yo' 
nuffin'. 

Miss A. Go long with you ! {7-eturns to former position) 

Parson. Brother, the good book says, " Forgive, and we shall 
be forgiven." (Mrs. D. and Nellie approach Deacon and kneel 
at his l. side) 

Mrs. D. Father, I ask your forgiveness, not for myself, but for 
this innocent child's sake. 

Pete. Now, go for him. Miss 'Melia, an' yo'll fotch him, suah. 

Deacon. Rise, my child, for inhuman would be the man who 
could refuse the pleadings of a kneeling child. You are for- 



50 THE DEACON. 

given, [tenderly kisses the brow of Mrs. D. She and Nellie 
nse) 

Miss A. Oh, Deacon, Deacon! 

Pete, [aside) She's jealous ! 

Miss A. How noble you are. 

Pete, [elevating eyebrows and opeiiing mouth) Oh, dat's what 
she means 1 

Graef. [grasping the Deacon's hand) Now, uncle, I'll shake 
hands with you and thank you, too, for the nobility of character 
you have shown. Though there will be no marriage bells ringing 
in this house to-day, yet I'm sure there will not be a happier gath- 
ering of loved ones to be found in this wide, wide world. 

Pete. But t'ink ob de good things we'll miss ! 

Deacon, [gleefully) Who says there will be no marriage-bells 
sounding in this house to-day ? Parson, step right down, [vwiion- 
ing doivn C. Enter Billy, d. c, with huge piece of cake in hatid, 
eating. His disfigurenieiits are slightly less than in Act 4. Stands 
up c.) Where are you, Amelia, my love? 

Miss A. Oh, Deacon, don't be so silly ! [holding back. All 
s?nile) 

Deacon. Come along, my love. Don't keep the Parson waiting, 
come along, [take positions down c.) Vwye. runs to Nellie and 
places her beside MiSS A., rohile he goes to Deacon's side. Mrs. 
T. and Helen up l. ; Graef and Mrs. D. tip r.; Billy up c, 
eating) 

Pete. Let de band play fo' we's all ready fo' de dance. (Par- 
son opens book and steps in front of Miss A. and the Deacon 
as the curiai?t falls) 



CURTAIN. 




SAVED FROM THE WRECK. 

A DRAMA IN THREE ACTS, BY THOMAS K. SERRANO. 
PRICE, 15 CENTS. 

Eight male, three female characters : Leading comedy, juvenile man, gentfcl 
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SYNOPSIS OF INCIDENTS. 

Act I. The Home of thh Light-house Kteper. — An autumn afternoon.— 
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foundling. — An abuse of confidence. — Tiie new partner.— 1 he compact. — The dead 
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ActIL Sci:ne as before; time, night.— D..rk clouds gathering. — Changing 
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accident. — "Will she be saved ? " — Latour's bravery. — A noble sacrifice. — The secret 
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Act III. Two Days Later.— Plot and counterplot.— Gentleman and convict.— 
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BETWEEN TWO FIRES. 

A COMEDY-DRAMA IN THREE ACTS, BY THOMAS K. SERRANO. 

PRICE, 15 CENTS. 

Eight male, three female, and utility characters : Leading juvenile man, first and 
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SYNOrSIS OF INCIDENTS. 

Act I. At Fort Lee, on the Hudson.— News from the war. — The meeting. 
— The colonePs strange romance. — Departing for the war. — The intrusted packet. — An 
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danger. — Spies in the camp. — The insult. — Risen from the ranks. — The colonel's prej- 
udice. — Letters from home. — The plot to ruin. — A token of love. — True to him. — 
The plotters at work. — Breaking the seals. — The meetii'g of husband and wife. — A 
forlorn hope. — Doomed as a spy. — A struggle for lost honor. — A soldier's death. — 
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^^' Copies mailed^ ^osipaid., to any address^ on receipt o/ the annexed prices. __ ^i^ 



UNCLE TOM'S CABIN (NEW version.) 

A MELODRAMA IN FIVE ACTS, BY CHAS. TOWNSEND. 
PRICE, 15 CENTS. 

Seven male, five female characters (some of the characters play two parts). 
Time of playing, aj^ hours. Tliis i,aiievvaciiug editi;,n of a prim) oM favorite, 
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SvNOPSis OF Incidents: Act I. — Scene T.~'Y\\^ Shelby plantation in Kentucky. — 
Geor:;: and Eiiza. — The curse of Slavery. — The resolve. — Off for Canada. — "I won't 
be taken — I'il die first." — Shelby and Ilalev. — Uncle Tom and Harry must be sold. — 
The poor inotlier.— '' Sell my Ijoy ! " — The faithf\il slave. Scene II. — Gumptioii 
Cute. — *' By Gum • " — Marks, t' e lawyer. — A mad Yankee. — George in disguise. — A 
friend in need. — The human bloodhounds. — The escape. — " Hooray fer old Var- 
mount ! " 

Acr II. — St. Clare's elegant home. — The fretful wife. — The arrival. — Little Eva. — 
Aunt Ophelia and Topsy. — " O, Go'Iy ! I'se so wicked!" — Si. Clare's opinion. — 
" Benighted innocence." — The stolen gloves. — Topsy in her glory. 

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Act IV.— The lonely house. — Tom and St. Clare. — Topsy's keepsake. — Deacon 
Perry and Aunt Opheli.i. — Cuto on deck. — h. distant relative. — The hungry visitor. — 
Chuck full of emptinos." — Cute and the Deaccn. — A row. — A fight. — Topsy to ti.c 
leicue. — St. Clare wouiidid. — Death cf St. Clare. — "Eva — Eva — 1 am coming " 

Act V. — Lesree's plan'ati<^n oa the Red River. — Home again. — Uncle Tom's 
noble heart. — " My soul ain't yours, Mas'r." — Legree'scrucl work. — Legree andCassj-. 
— The whiteslave. — A frightened brute. — Legrco's fear. — A life of sin. — Marks and 
Cute. — A n"W scheme. — The f'readful whipping of Uncle Tom.— Legree punished at 
last. — Death of Uncle Tom. — Eva in Heaven. 



1 



THE WOVEN WEB, 



A DRAMA IN FOUR ACTS, BY CIIAS. TOV/NSEND. 
PRICE, 15 CENTS. 

Seven male, three female characters, viz. : leading and second juvenile men, so- 
ciety villain, walking gentleman, ecceniric comedian, old man, low comedian, leading 
juvenile lady, soubretie and old wom.an. Time of playing, 2^ lioars. The Woven Weu 
is a flawless drama, pure in thought and action, with excellent characiers, and pre- 
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Synopsis of Incidents: Act I.— Parkhurst & Manning's law office, New York. 
— Tim's opinic. — The youn^ lawj'er. — "Majah Billy Toby, sah ! " — Love and law. 
— Bright prospects. — Bertha's mi fortune. — A false friend. — The will destroyed. — A 
cunning plot. — Weaving the web. — The unseen witness. — The letter. — Accused. — 
Dishonored. 

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message. — Tim on his dignity. — The arrival. — Playing soldier. — The secret. — The 
promise. — Harry in danger. — Love and duty. — The promise kept.- — "Saved, at the 
loss of my own honor ! " 

Act hi. — Drawiiig-room at Falconer's. — Reading the news. — " Apply to Judy ! " 
— Louise's romancf. — Important news. — Bertha's fears. — Leamington's arrival. — 
Drawing the web. — 'Jhreatened. — Tloiting. — Harry and liertha. — A fiendish He. — Face 
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Startling tableau. 

Act IV. — At Uncle Toby's. — A wonderful climate. — An impudent rascal. — A bit 
of history. — Woman's wit. — Toby Indignant. — A quarrel. — Uncle 'J'oby's evidence. — 
Leamington's last trump.— Good news. — Checkmated. — The telegram.— Breaking 
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%ti" Copies mailed, postpaid^ to any address, 07t 7-ccerpi of the annexed prices. _Jg| 



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•'AMATEUR^ THEATRICALS." 

A Practical Guide Jor Atnaitur Attvrt. 

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HELMER'S 

ACTOR'S MAKE-UP BOOK. 

T A Practical and Systematic Guide to the Art of Matting up /or the Stagt, 

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Facial make«up has much to do with an actor's success. This manual is a perfect 
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Chapter I. Theatrical Wigs.— The Style and Form of Theatrical Wigs and 
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Chapter II. Theatrical Beards.— How to fashion a Beard out of Cr.«pe Hair. 
How to make Beards of Wool. The growth of Beard simulated. 

Chapter III. The Make-up.— A successful Character Mask, and how to make it. 
Perspiration during performance, how removed. 

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Chapter VII. Special Hints to Ladies.— The Make-up. Theatrical Wigs and 
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^^ Copies o/ the above will be mailed^ post-paid^ to any address, on receipt of 
the annexed prices. ,J^ 

HAROLD ROORBACH. Publisher, 9 Murray St.. New York. 



LIBRftRY OF CONGRESS 

■n 

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